Iran-US Talks in Pakistan: No Direct Meeting Planned
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Pakistan's Army Chief, Asim Munir, in Islamabad. While high-level talks are occurring, a senior Iranian official confirmed that no direct meeting between Iran and the U.S. is planned. However, U.S. special envoys, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are still scheduled to visit Pakistan for discussions mediated by Pakistani officials. Tensions remain high, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz, and the U.S. has indicated that its blockade on Iranian ports will remain in place until a deal is struck.
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Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Pakistan's Army Chief, Asim Munir, amid uncertainty over direct Iran-US talks, as US envoys are still scheduled to visit Islamabad.
Diplomatic Meetings in Islamabad
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Pakistan's Army Chief, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, during a visit to Islamabad. This meeting occurred as expectations for a second round of direct negotiations between Iran and the United States remained unclear.
Status of Iran-US Negotiations
Despite the high-level meetings, a senior Iranian official clarified that there are no plans for a direct meeting between Iran and the U.S. government representatives.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei stated that Iran's observations would instead be conveyed to Pakistan.
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US Envoy Visit Confirmed
Separately, the White House confirmed that U.S. special envoys are scheduled to travel to Pakistan for discussions with Iranian counterparts.
Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to arrive in Pakistan on Saturday morning.
According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, the envoys will engage in "direct talks," following an invitation from the Iranian side, echoing a request made by President Donald Trump.
The talks are expected to be mediated by Pakistani officials.
Vice President JD Vance, who led a previous U.S. delegation, will not be attending this weekend's discussions.
Context and Sticking Points
The diplomatic activity takes place against a backdrop of ongoing regional tensions, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz and U.S. sanctions.
Strait of Hormuz: This vital oil-shipping route remains a focal point of tension, with traffic reportedly slowing amid Iranian threats and a U.S. naval blockade.
US Stance: President Trump stated that the U.S. would not lift its blockade on Iranian ports until a comprehensive deal is reached.
Previous Talks: The initial round of peace talks held two weeks prior in Islamabad, which included a U.S. delegation led by Vance, concluded without an agreement.
Araghchi had stated that his visit was part of a broader tour to coordinate with partners on bilateral matters and discuss regional developments.
