According to Pakistani sources and Iranian state television, trilateral talks between the United States, Iran, and Pakistan aimed at ending the war between the US and Iran began today at the Serena Hotel in Islamabad's Red Zone. Sources explained that the talks are being held between US Vice President JD Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and President's son-in-law Jared Kushner on one side, and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, and Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir on the other.
According to Pakistani media, an official said that the atmosphere between the delegations in Islamabad is friendly, and there are signs of positive progress in the ongoing talks between Washington and Tehran. Earlier today, the White House and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's office announced that JD Vance had a conversation with Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad. According to Reuters, Witkoff and Kushner also participated in the talks.
The Prime Minister's office said that Shehbaz Sharif expressed hope that these talks would prove to be a starting point for sustainable peace in the region. This meeting took place after a meeting between Shehbaz Sharif and an Iranian delegation led by Ghalibaf. According to Iranian state television, Shehbaz Sharif was informed about Tehran's proposals and its "red lines", which include the Strait of Hormuz, compensation for war damages, the release of frozen Iranian assets, and a ceasefire across the region.
The Iranian delegation also met with the Pakistani Army Chief after arriving in Islamabad last night. These talks are taking place after a war that broke out on February 28 between Iran, Israel, and the US, and lasted for about six weeks, after which Pakistani Prime Minister announced a two-week ceasefire on April 8. The talks are taking place amid repeated threats by President Donald Trump that if no agreement is reached, the war could resume.
On the other hand, Ghalibaf expressed his determination that Iran is ready to agree to a "real agreement" if the US gives it its "rights". He emphasized that Iran has good intentions but does not "trust the US". According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's office, the Prime Minister appreciated the constructive approach of both delegations and expressed hope that these talks would prove to be a milestone towards sustainable peace in the region.
The statement quoted the Prime Minister as reiterating that Pakistan is willing to continue facilitating progress between the two sides to achieve sustainable peace in the region.
