The White House has announced that US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and presidential adviser Jared Kushner will travel to Pakistan on Saturday to participate in a second round of talks with Iran.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the discussions would involve “direct talks” between US and Iranian representatives, with Pakistan acting as a key intermediary.
She described Pakistan as an “incredible friend and mediator” in facilitating the diplomatic process, adding that additional US officials would remain on standby to travel if required.
Leavitt stated that the initiative follows outreach from Iran requesting in-person discussions, adding that President Donald Trump continues to prioritize diplomacy as the first option in resolving international disputes.
The announcement comes as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is also expected to arrive in Islamabad, accompanied by a small delegation for a regional diplomatic tour covering Islamabad, Muscat, and Moscow.
Pakistani sources have indicated that preparations are underway for a second round of US-Iran engagement in Islamabad, with a US logistics and security team already present in the capital.
Iranian state media confirmed the visit, stating that Araghchi’s trip would focus on bilateral consultations and regional developments, including ongoing tensions involving the United States and Israel.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office recently confirmed that Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Araghchi discussed regional stability, ceasefire efforts, and diplomatic coordination during a recent phone call. Both sides agreed to maintain close contact and continue supporting dialogue-based solutions.
Earlier rounds of US-Iran talks were held in Islamabad, reportedly facilitated by Pakistan, though they concluded without a formal agreement. Diplomatic efforts have since continued amid rising tensions linked to maritime security issues and restrictions in strategic waterways.
Pakistan has recently intensified its diplomatic role, engaging both Washington and Tehran in efforts to restart negotiations and reduce regional instability.
