Islamabad Ready for High-Stakes U.S.-Iran Peace Talks, But Tehran Remains Skeptical

Pakistani security forces on high alert in Islamabad ahead of the expected arrival of U.S. and Iranian delegations for peace negotiations. | Photo: Vextra News via Reuters.

 

VEXTRA NEWS DESK: Pakistan is making final preparations to host a critical second round of peace negotiations between the United States and Iran in Islamabad. While Pakistani officials are pushing for a multi-day summit to secure a long-term deal, uncertainty looms as Tehran has yet to confirm its participation amidst escalating naval tensions in the Gulf.

​Pakistan as the Mediator

The Pakistani government has transformed Islamabad into a diplomatic fortress, deploying over 10,000 security personnel to ensure the safety of visiting delegates. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has been actively facilitating communication between Washington and Tehran, aiming to extend the current two-week ceasefire, which is set to expire on April 21. Islamabad’s goal is to reach a "Memorandum of Understanding" (MoU) that could provide a 60-day window for more permanent peace talks.

​The U.S. Delegation and Trump’s Ultimatum

President Donald Trump has announced that a high-level U.S. delegation—initially expected to be led by Vice President JD Vance—is heading to Pakistan. However, recent reports suggest Vance may not make the trip due to security concerns, with special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner expected to lead the negotiations instead.

​The stakes could not be higher. President Trump has issued a stern warning on social media, stating that if a deal is not reached, the U.S. is prepared to "knock out" critical infrastructure in Iran. "We're offering a very fair and reasonable DEAL... if they don't take it, NO MORE MR. NICE GUY!" Trump posted.

​Tehran’s Hesitation

Despite the U.S. push, Iran's official news agency, IRNA, reported that Tehran is reluctant to join the second round of talks. Iranian officials have cited the ongoing U.S. naval blockade and "excessive demands" from Washington as primary reasons for their distrust. The recent seizure of the Iranian cargo ship 'TOUSKA' by the U.S. Navy has further soured the diplomatic atmosphere.

​Global Watch on the Strait of Hormuz

As the ceasefire deadline approaches, the international community is closely monitoring the Strait of Hormuz. While both sides briefly indicated the waterway was "reopened" for commercial traffic, the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports remains in full force, leaving global shipping industries in a state of uncertainty.