In a hopeful sign for a region on edge, Iran and Pakistan have met to discuss a ceasefire, according to a statement from the Iranian government. The talks are the latest chapter in an ongoing, high-stakes diplomatic push to bring an end to the 2026 Iran war.
How did it get here?
On April 8, the United States and Iran agreed to an initial two-week ceasefire, brokered by Pakistan. Since then, Pakistan has been working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the peace process alive. The landmark Islamabad Talks were held on April 11–12, with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar playing a central mediating role between a large U.S. delegation led by Vice President JD Vance and an Iranian team headed by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
What happened after the first round of talks?
The first round ended without a final agreement, but diplomats on both sides urged patience. Pakistani officials expressed cautious optimism, saying the process was moving in a positive direction, while stressing that a final agreement would require sustained engagement and compromise.
Then came another hurdle — the ceasefire’s expiration date loomed. President Trump extended the ceasefire, saying Iran’s leadership needed more time to submit a unified negotiating proposal, while keeping a naval blockade of Iranian ports in place.
Why is Pakistan so central to this?
Pakistan has been the primary mediator between the U.S. and Iran over recent weeks, working behind the scenes to bring Tehran back into the room. It’s a delicate balancing act — unlike the first round, the new talks could run for several days, with the aim of agreeing on a framework for broader negotiations in the coming weeks and months.
What does Iran want?
Iran’s position has been firm. Tehran insists that as long as it cannot export its oil, it will not allow others in the region to do so either — a reference to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s counter-proposal includes an end to U.S.-Israeli attacks, security guarantees against future aggression, war reparations, and international recognition of Iranian sovereignty over the Strait.