In an important diplomatic move, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian confirmed Iran’s involvement in peace talks to be held in Islamabad. This marks a significant step, potentially the first direct in-person negotiations since the US-Israeli war on Iran began on February 28.
The announcement follows weeks of intense Pakistani diplomacy that has made Islamabad a key link between Washington and Tehran. A first round of negotiations between the United States and Iran is scheduled for Friday in Islamabad, according to sources familiar with the planning. President Trump announced a two-week ceasefire during which both sides will negotiate a full peace agreement, and Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed Tehran’s acceptance.
Pakistan’s role in achieving this breakthrough has taken months to develop. Iranian President Pezeshkian praised Pakistan’s positive role and highlighted the need to build trust for negotiations to succeed. Both Iran and the United States expressed confidence in Islamabad’s ability to facilitate discussions. Earlier calls revealed that Pezeshkian informed Sharif that Iran had faced attacks during prior nuclear talks with the US. He warned that this disconnect—engaging in talks while facing strikes—had increased Iranian skepticism about Washington’s intentions. He stated that confidence-building measures would be necessary before Tehran could consider direct talks.