JD Vance has travelled to Pakistan to lead the US delegation in high-stakes talks with Iran aimed at preserving a fragile ceasefire after weeks of conflict in West Asia.
Before departing, Vance warned Tehran against attempting to exploit the negotiations. “We won’t be receptive if Iran tries to play us,” he said, adding that Donald Trump had set clear guidelines for the talks.
The negotiations are expected to take place in Islamabad under heavy security, with discussions likely to focus on Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, whose disruption has affected global energy supplies.
Pakistan has tightened security across the capital ahead of the talks. Roads leading to government buildings and the diplomatic district have been sealed, the army has been deployed, and authorities have declared a two-day public holiday. The talks are expected to centre around the high-security Islamabad Serena Hotel, which was requisitioned by the government and cleared of guests.
Iran’s delegation is expected to include Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. The US side will also include adviser Jared Kushner and envoy Steve Witkoff.
The talks come after the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire earlier this week, though both sides have since accused each other of violating its terms. Pakistan is attempting to mediate in the hope of preventing a broader regional escalation.