What to expect as Pakistan hosts high-stakes US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has been thrust into the center of global diplomacy as it prepares to host high-stakes talks between the US and Iran, with a fragile ceasefire holding just long enough to bring both sides to the negotiating table.

The negotiations, expected to begin Saturday in Islamabad, represent the most significant direct engagement between Washington and Tehran since the collapse of earlier diplomatic efforts — and come amid deep uncertainty over whether the process can deliver a lasting settlement.

US Vice President JD Vance struck a cautiously optimistic tone on Friday ahead of his departure for Islamabad, where he is set to lead Washington’s delegation in the upcoming talks with Iran.

Speaking to reporters before boarding Air Force Two, Vance said: “We’re looking forward to the negotiation. I think it’s going to be positive.”