Pakistan gears up for fresh US-Iran talks as ceasefire window narrows
Pakistan has stepped up preparations to host a second round of high-stakes talks between the United States and Iran next week, as diplomatic efforts intensify to secure a landmark peace deal to end the ongoing West Asia conflict that has severely disrupted global energy supplies, news agency PTI reported on Friday.
The move follows the first round of rare direct talks between the US and Iran held in Pakistan over the weekend, which ended early Sunday without any agreement. However, both sides have continued to observetemporary two-week ceasefire, prompting renewed diplomatic activity to bring them back to the negotiating table.
Pak Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif launched a tri-nation tour on Wednesday as part of the mediation effort. After holding discussions with leaders in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, he reached Türkiye on Thursday night. Simultaneously, Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir travelled to Tehran, where he spent over 24 hours engaging with Iran’s political and military leadership.Authorities have also begun logistical planning, with transport companies alerted to possible disruptions. A message circulated on social media advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel or plan in advance. Educational institutions may be shut, and markets near sensitive zones, including areas close to the airport, could be closed to ease traffic movement and ensure security, reported PTI.
The initial talks were led by US Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. Vance said the negotiations failed to produce a deal, citing Tehran’s refusal to abandon its nuclear programme as a key Prospects for a breakthrough appeared to improve after US President Donald Trump said he may travel to Islamabad if a final agreement is reached there. Speaking to reporters on the White House lawn before departing for Nevada and Arizona, Trump claimed Iran had accepted “almost everything” under negotiation and expressed confidence in Pakistan’s mediation efforts. He also indicated that the ceasefire could be extended if needed, though he suggested a deal may be reached before the deadline.