Ahead of key ceasefire negotiations between Washington and Tehran in Islamabad, Pakistani F-16 fighter jets were observed escorting a US Air Force Boeing C-32A aircraft through Pakistani airspace. The aircraft was reportedly carrying US Vice President JD Vance, President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. The plane later landed at Nur Khan Airbase under tight security arrangements.
Vice President Vance is expected to hold talks with an Iranian delegation later today in what is being described as the highest-level direct engagement between the two nations since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The discussions aim to bring an end to the ongoing six-week conflict between Washington and Tehran.
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Iran’s delegation is being led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi. The meeting comes at a time of heightened tensions, though diplomatic efforts are being intensified to prevent further escalation.
Despite the breakthrough in dialogue, mistrust remains deeply rooted. Iranian state media quoted Ghalibaf as saying that while Tehran approaches the talks with “good intentions,” past negotiations with the United States have consistently failed due to “broken promises and lack of trust.”
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has called on both sides to engage constructively, reiterating Islamabad’s willingness to support diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving long-term stability in the region.
Earlier discussions revealed significant differences between the two sides. The US reportedly proposed a 15-point framework demanding restrictions on Iran’s nuclear programme and the surrender of highly enriched uranium. Iran, meanwhile, countered with a 10-point proposal seeking sanctions relief, recognition of sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, and limited continuation of uranium enrichment.
Separately, Lebanon and Israel are also preparing for talks next week following a temporary easing of tensions after recent strikes.
