US Vice President JD Vance has arrived in Islamabad leading a high-level delegation for what officials are calling “make-or-break” talks with Iran, marking a rare diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran.
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Vance landed at Nur Khan Air Base, where he was received by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Pakistan’s military leadership. The visit comes as Pakistan plays a central facilitation role in hosting negotiations aimed at reducing regional tensions.
The Iranian delegation, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, also arrived in Islamabad ahead of the talks. Senior officials from both sides are expected to participate, making this the most significant US-Iran engagement in decades.
The discussions are taking place during a temporary pause in hostilities linked to the wider US-Israeli-Iran tensions, which have disrupted security across the Middle East and impacted global energy routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.
According to officials, the agenda includes Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, frozen assets, and regional security concerns. The United States delegation also includes senior officials and advisers, highlighting the importance Washington attaches to the negotiations.
US President Donald Trump has described the talks as a potential opportunity but warned that military options remain on the table if diplomacy fails. Iranian officials, meanwhile, have stressed that sanctions relief and recognition of their rights are essential conditions for progress.
Pakistan has emphasized that it is hosting the talks to promote peace and stability in the region. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Islamabad is committed to facilitating dialogue and hopes the negotiations will lead to meaningful de-escalation.
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Analysts caution that despite the historic nature of the meeting, deep mistrust and conflicting demands mean immediate breakthroughs are unlikely, though the talks could establish a framework for continued engagement.