Web Desk: Pakistan took center stage in global diplomacy on Friday as historical peace negotiations between the United States and Iran commenced in the federal capital. These high-stakes discussions, termed the “Islamabad Accord,” represent the first major step toward ending weeks of conflict and restoring regional stability.
While preliminary delegation-level talks began today at the Foreign Office, the most critical phase of the negotiations will take place on Saturday. The sessions aim to solidify a fragile two-week ceasefire mediated by Pakistan and address long-standing disputes between the two adversaries.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance leads the American delegation, accompanied by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. On the Iranian side, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi head the negotiating team. Representatives from China, Russia, and several Gulf nations are also present as observers to witness the proceedings.
To ensure the safety of the high-profile participants, local authorities implemented an extraordinary security alert around the Foreign Office and the private hotels hosting the delegates. Hundreds of international journalists and major global media houses have arrived in Islamabad to cover the event, which observers believe could be a decisive moment for world peace.
However, the talks begin under a shadow of intense pressure. U.S. President Donald Trump recently issued a stern warning on social media, stating that Iran would face “bombing worse than ever before” if a “real deal” is not achieved. Trump emphasized that the U.S. military maintains its positions around Iran and reiterated that Tehran must never possess nuclear weapons while ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open.
Despite these tensions, the Pakistani government remains committed to its role as a mediator. By hosting these two longtime rivals, Pakistan seeks to facilitate a diplomatic solution that prevents further escalation and secures a lasting settlement for the Middle East.
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