Senior Iranian officials have arrived in Islamabad ahead of high-stakes ceasefire talks with the United States, signalling cautious movement after weeks of simmering tensions.
The delegation, led by parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, includes key security and economic figures shaping Tehran’s negotiating stance.
Iranian state media stressed negotiations will only begin if Washington accepts preconditions, underlining Tehran’s firm posture despite a fragile two-week ceasefire agreement.
Ghalibaf has demanded a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of Iran’s blocked assets before engaging with the US delegation.
The American team, headed by Vice President JD Vance, is expected to address contentious issues including nuclear enrichment and maritime security.
Officials say the talks will also focus on ensuring uninterrupted trade through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global energy flows.
Since the ceasefire began, President Donald Trump has criticised Iran’s handling of the strait, accusing Tehran of leveraging strategic waterways for pressure.
Iran has responded sharply to ongoing Israeli attacks in Lebanon, arguing they fall within the scope of the ceasefire understanding.
In a pointed message, Trump claimed Iran holds little leverage beyond short-term disruption of international shipping routes, reflecting deep mistrust between both sides.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the dialogue, describing it as a necessary yet demanding step towards regional stability.
He warned that while a temporary ceasefire offers breathing space, the negotiations ahead represent a decisive moment to secure a lasting peace.