Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad on Friday night as Pakistan prepares to host a new round of US-Iran talks aimed at advancing ceasefire efforts and reducing regional tensions.
According to Iranian state media, Araghchi is on a three-nation diplomatic tour that includes visits to Islamabad, Muscat, and Moscow. The visit focuses on bilateral consultations and discussions on regional developments and ongoing conflict dynamics involving the United States and Israel.
Iran’s official news agency IRNA stated that the talks will also review the latest situation surrounding the conflict with Iran, as diplomatic efforts continue across multiple regional capitals.
Meanwhile, the White House confirmed that US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and presidential adviser Jared Kushner are scheduled to travel to Pakistan for a new round of discussions with Iranian representatives.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the engagement will involve direct talks facilitated by Pakistan, which has played a central mediating role in the ongoing diplomatic process. She added that additional US officials remain on standby if further coordination is required.
Sources in Islamabad confirmed that a US logistics and security team is already present in the capital ahead of the expected negotiations.
The development follows earlier Pakistan-mediated efforts that resulted in a temporary ceasefire between the two sides on April 8, followed by initial talks hosted in Islamabad on April 11. However, those discussions ended without a final agreement.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar recently held a phone call with Araghchi, during which both sides discussed the ceasefire and ongoing diplomatic initiatives. The Iranian foreign minister praised Pakistan’s “consistent and constructive role” in facilitating dialogue.
Despite earlier progress, negotiations faced delays due to tensions surrounding maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz and reciprocal military actions in the region.
Pakistan has continued active diplomatic engagement with both Washington and Tehran in an effort to sustain dialogue and prevent escalation.
Further rounds of talks are expected as diplomatic momentum builds, though final outcomes remain uncertain.
