Islamabad Talks 2.0: Iran–US negotiations still pending final scheduling

ISLAMABAD: In a late-night development, the United States has extended an ongoing ceasefire with Iran indefinitely following diplomatic engagement from Pakistan’s leadership.

According to the report, delegations from the United States and Iran were expected to arrive in Islamabad for talks; however, neither side reached the capital as scheduled.

The anticipated meeting did not take place, with no official explanation immediately provided for the absence of both delegations

Iranian Ambassador to the United Nations Amir Saeed Iravani said in a statement today that if the US lifts the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, they are ready for talks in Islamabad.

This statement reflects the fact that the only obstacle to Iran’s participation in the talks is the naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. And Iran can come to Islamabad for talks after its lifting.

According to experts, the resumption of talks depends on confidence-building measures by the US. For example, if it lifts the naval blockade and releases the Iranian ships, this could be a step towards talks.

Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moqadam meeting with Pakistani PM

On the other hand, Pakistan is trying to play its full role in this situation. Today, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Iranian Ambassador Reza Amir Moqadam, while Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with British diplomat Jane Marriott.

Yesterday, Ishaq Dar had a telephonic conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, while the meeting with the Chinese Ambassador and the US Chargé d’Affaires also discussed the regional situation.

An advisor to the speaker of the Iranian parliament has made serious allegations by calling the extension of the ceasefire by US President Donald Trump a ploy.

In his statement, the Iranian official said that the purpose of extending the ceasefire is not to maintain peace but to prepare for a possible attack on Iran.

He said that continuing the blockade is, in fact, tantamount to bombing and that the US is creating instability in the region through unilateral decisions.

On the other hand, the spokesman for the Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters clarified that the Iranian forces are on full high alert and will respond immediately and forcefully in the event of any aggression. Iran is fully prepared to deal with any situation, and the set targets will be hit.

On the other hand, US President Donald Trump claimed in his statement that Iran’s nuclear, naval, and air capabilities have been severely damaged, the Strait of Hormuz is currently under US control, and Iran is suffering heavy financial losses daily due to the blockade.