Washington: A potential new round of ceasefire negotiations may take shape in Islamabad, with JD Vance preparing to lead a US delegation to the Pakistani capital on Tuesday if Iran confirms its participation. The timing of the visit is tied directly to the looming expiry of the current truce, placing added urgency on both sides to decide on further engagement, according to a report by The Guardian.
Vance is set to be accompanied by Steve Witkoff, a senior envoy linked to Donald Trump, and Jared Kushner. The planned visit comes amid ongoing distrust from Tehran, with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signalling continued scepticism toward US intentions.
Iranian leadership has raised concerns over inconsistent messaging from Washington, interpreting recent diplomatic moves as pressure rather than constructive engagement, and reiterating resistance to coercion.
Despite this, a senior Iranian official indicated that Tehran is reviewing the possibility of participation. Reports suggest Iran’s delegation could again be led by parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf if the US delegation attends.
Ghalibaf has stated that Iran will not engage in negotiations under threat conditions and indicated readiness to escalate its strategic position if necessary. He has also accused the US administration of attempting to shape talks in a way that would force concessions or justify further escalation.
Tehran has called for the removal of US restrictions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, while Trump has reiterated his stance that Iran must not develop nuclear weapons and signalled openness to direct engagement with the Iranian leadership.
Confusion briefly arose after Trump suggested the US delegation was already en route, but officials later clarified that Vance’s departure is scheduled for Tuesday morning, pending confirmation that the talks will proceed.