Iranian delegation due in Pakistan for talks despite Israeli violations of ceasefire: Envoy

Islamabad is set to host talks between delegations from the US and Iran after a two-week ceasefire was secured late Tuesday, ending a high-stakes standoff.

Reza Amiri Moghadam, the Iranian ambassador, said on US social media platform X: “Despite skepticism of Iranian public opinion due to repeated ceasefire violations by Israeli regime to sabotage the diplomatic initiative, invited by Hon. PM (Prime Minister) Shehbaz Sharif, Iranian delegation arrives tonight in Islamabad for serious talks based on 10 points proposed by Iran.”

The US will be represented by Vice President JD Vance and US President Donald Trump’s Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law.

The format of the talks remains unknown.

The development comes as Pakistani authorities took heightened security measures in the capital ahead of the high-level meetings, closing off major roads leading to the diplomatic enclave as well as key government installations, including the Prime Minister’s Office, President’s House, and Foreign Ministry.

According to official statements, the Islamabad talks are scheduled to take place on Friday, with preparations underway for what is expected to be a closely watched diplomatic engagement between the two sides.

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also met with US Ambassador to Islamabad Natalie Baker, where they discussed the current situation in the Middle East and welcomed the ceasefire, and Baker praised Pakistan’s strong diplomatic role.

The meeting also reviewed preparations for the high-level talks in Islamabad, with Naqvi saying Vance, Witkoff, and Kushner will be their special guests, while a comprehensive security plan has been put in place for all foreign delegates.

Separately, in a phone call, Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and his Saudi counterpart Faisal bin Farhan discussed the latest situation in the region.

“Both expressed deep concern over ceasefire violations in Lebanon and stressed the urgent need for full respect for and implementation of the ceasefire to ensure lasting peace and stability,” Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Dar also praised Saudi Arabia’s continued support for Pakistan’s efforts toward achieving lasting peace, and the sides agreed to remain in close contact.