Negotiating teams from United States and Iran are likely to return to Islamabad later this week, as diplomatic efforts intensify following high-level talks that ended without a breakthrough.
Pakistan hosted direct negotiations between the two sides over the weekend — the most significant engagement since 1979. Although no agreement was reached, the talks concluded without collapsing, keeping the door open for further dialogue.
Sources say no final date has been confirmed yet, but the next round could take place between Friday and Sunday. Pakistan has proposed a second round of talks, and initial responses from both sides appear encouraging.
A senior Pakistani official indicated that Iran has shown willingness to participate again, while ongoing communication continues to finalize the timing. The main objective is to bring both sides back to the table and extend the ceasefire to allow more time for diplomacy.
Backchannel efforts are also underway, with Pakistan playing a central role alongside support from Turkey and Egypt. The immediate priority remains extending the ceasefire beyond the April 22 deadline.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that “full efforts” are being made to resolve the conflict, noting that while the ceasefire is holding, the situation remains fragile.
Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance said the “ball is now in Iran’s court,” emphasizing that Washington has clearly outlined its conditions, particularly regarding Iran’s nuclear program.
President Donald Trump claimed that Iran has reached out seeking a deal, while Iranian leadership has reiterated that negotiations will continue strictly within the framework of international law.