Iran-US Talks to begin indirectly in Pakistan: Sources

ISLAMABAD: The first round of negotiations between the representatives of Iran and the US will be held without any face-to-face contact, as both delegations will hold talks separately with the help of Pakistani officials, sources said.

Sources further revealed that in the second stage of talks, face-to-face discussions between the two delegations will take place after addressing important topics through separate discussions in which Pakistan is playing an intermediary role.

Important preparations have been made for providing a positive environment for the discussion process, which shows how sensitive the diplomatic engagement currently taking place is.

At the same time, sources revealed that the delegation from the US will reach Pakistan in two stages. First, special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will visit Pakistan, while US Vice President J.D. Vance will follow them in the second stage.

The development highlights Pakistan’s growing role as a mediator in efforts aimed at reducing tensions and advancing dialogue between the two countries.

Lebanon seeks Pakistan’s help to halt Israeli attacks

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has sought Pakistan’s cooperation to immediately end the ongoing attacks on Lebanon and its people, as regional tensions continue to escalate.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation with his Lebanese counterpart, during which he strongly condemned Israel’s continued aggression against Lebanon and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives.

The prime minister reaffirmed that Pakistan is actively engaged in sincere diplomatic efforts for regional peace, including facilitating talks between Iran and the United States aimed at achieving a ceasefire.

During the conversation, Nawaf Salam appreciated Pakistan’s role in peace efforts and urged Islamabad to help ensure an immediate halt to attacks. He also called for confirmation that Lebanon is included in the broader ceasefire framework to prevent further strikes.

Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact as diplomatic engagements continue.

The development comes amid a sharp escalation in violence, with reports indicating that more than 200 people were killed in recent Israeli attacks in Lebanon. While the United States and Israel maintain that Lebanon is not part of the current ceasefire, Iran has signaled that it considers Lebanon integral to any truce arrangement, further complicating the situation.