Welcome to our live coverage of significant developments in the Middle East, specifically the upcoming discussions between Iranian and American officials set to commence in Islamabad. We will provide continuous updates, but first, let’s summarize the current situation.
The American delegation has arrived in Islamabad ahead of crucial negotiations scheduled for Saturday, joining their Iranian counterparts who had previously landed. The US team is led by Vice President JD Vance, along with Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
Heading the Iranian delegation is prominent parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who is reportedly accompanied by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Ali Akbar Ahmadian, Secretary of Iran’s Defense Council, Abdolnaser Hemmati, Governor of the Central Bank of Iran, and various members of the Iranian parliament. Ghalibaf stated on Friday that two conditions—enforcement of a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of Iran’s frozen assets—must be met before any negotiations can commence. Both Israel and the US have dismissed claims that the ceasefire pertains to Lebanon.
The discussions are taking place amidst threats from former President Trump, who has warned of potential military strikes should the negotiations falter. He asserted that Iran lacks leverage and suggested that their existence hinges on these talks. In an interview with the New York Post, Trump mentioned that the US is equipping its warships with advanced weaponry in preparation for a possible failure in talks with Tehran, stating, “If we don’t reach an agreement, we will utilize them effectively.”
Additionally, Lebanon and Israel have scheduled a meeting in Washington for Tuesday to deliberate on a ceasefire and establish a timeline for negotiations, which will be mediated by the US.
In Lebanon, the health ministry has reported a rise in casualties due to Israel’s recent military actions, with the death toll now at 357 from the most severe strikes in years. Since the escalation of hostilities on March 2, the overall number of fatalities in Lebanon has exceeded 1,953, with injuries reported at 6,303.
US intelligence has indicated that China is preparing to deliver new air defense systems to Iran within the forthcoming weeks, according to reports from CNN citing unnamed sources. There has been no immediate response from the US State Department, the White House, or the Chinese embassy in Washington regarding these developments.
In a statement prior to the talks, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of the upcoming US-Iran discussions in Islamabad, describing them as “make or break,” and highlighted that the next steps will be critical in determining the potential for a lasting ceasefire.
The Iranian delegation, led by Ghalibaf, arrived in Islamabad on Friday night, escorted by Pakistani jets upon entering the country’s airspace. General Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff, and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar welcomed the Iranian delegation.
Following his arrival, Ghalibaf remarked, “Iran has come in good faith, but does not trust the US. Iran is prepared to reach an agreement if the US offers a legitimate proposal that acknowledges Iran’s rights.”
Foreign Minister Dar also expressed optimism for productive discussions, reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating a sustainable and enduring resolution between the involved parties. He voiced hope that both sides would engage in constructive dialogue.
Below is a comprehensive list of members of the Iranian delegation:
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the head of the delegation and the Iranian parliamentary speaker; Sey…
