Negotiators from the United States and Iran are expected to return to Islamabad later this week for a second round of discussions, following an initial high-level engagement that ended without a breakthrough but avoided collapse, keeping diplomatic channels open.
The first round of talks in Islamabad, involving senior figures including JD Vance, is being described by diplomatic sources as the most significant direct contact between Washington and Tehran in decades. While no agreement was reached, both sides reportedly left room for continued engagement rather than escalation.
According to officials familiar with the process, preparations are now underway to finalize dates for a new round, with discussions potentially scheduled before the end of the week. Pakistan has reportedly been actively coordinating between both capitals to facilitate logistics and sustain momentum.
Pakistan pushes for ceasefire stability
Alongside efforts to restart negotiations, Pakistan is also focusing on extending a fragile ceasefire that is set to expire on April 22. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stated that while the ceasefire remains under pressure, it is still holding and must be preserved to allow diplomatic progress.
Diplomatic intermediaries are also reportedly encouraging a 45-day extension of the truce to create space for negotiations and reduce the risk of renewed escalation.
Key gaps still unresolved
Despite continued engagement, major differences persist. The United States is insisting on strict verification mechanisms over Iran’s nuclear program, while Tehran continues to demand sanctions relief and guarantees under international law. Sequencing disagreements remain a central obstacle, with both sides disagreeing on who should make the first concessions.
Exchange of strong public positions
Public messaging from both capitals reflects ongoing tensions. US Vice President JD Vance described Washington’s proposal as its “final and best offer,” placing responsibility on Iran to respond. Meanwhile, Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, have criticized the US stance as overly rigid and demanding.
Pakistan’s expanded diplomatic outreach
Following the Islamabad meeting, Pakistan has intensified engagement with multiple global stakeholders, including China, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and Egypt, aiming to build support for continued dialogue and prevent escalation.
Officials say there is also interest from other global actors, including Russia, which has indicated willingness to play a supporting role in any future arrangement.
Next round still under discussion
While both sides appear willing to continue talks, the final venue and structure of the next meeting remain undecided. Iran reportedly prefers Islamabad due to its mediation role, while the United States is still considering alternatives.
Despite these uncertainties, diplomats believe the process remains alive, with the coming days seen as crucial for determining whether the ceasefire holds and whether negotiations can move toward a more structured framework.
