rki.news | Source: Anadolu Agency
ISLAMABAD, April 9 — The United States and Iran are set to hold high-level direct talks in Islamabad aimed at securing a permanent ceasefire, according to Pakistani government sources on Thursday. The negotiations are scheduled to begin on Saturday and may continue for several days due to the complexity of the issues involved.
Pakistan, which recently facilitated a fragile two-week ceasefire between the two sides, will host the talks at a secure military site under tight security, overseen by the Pakistan Army. The discussions are expected to include both direct and indirect engagements, along with separate consultations with Pakistani officials.
US Vice President JD Vance will lead the American delegation, accompanied by senior envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Iran is expected to be represented by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Parliament Speaker Bagher Ghalibaf, and senior commanders of the Revolutionary Guard, although Tehran has yet to officially confirm the lineup.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will represent Pakistan, while both delegations are also expected to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
The talks mark a significant diplomatic development and the highest-level US visit to Pakistan in over a decade. Authorities have enforced strict security measures across Islamabad, including road closures and the suspension of public activities, underscoring the sensitive nature of the negotiations aimed at achieving lasting regional stability.