US delegation led by JD Vance heads to Pakistan for Iran talks

WASHINGTON: A United States delegation led by Vice President JD Vance is en route to Pakistan and expected to arrive in Islamabad within hours for a second round of negotiations with Iran, US President Donald Trump confirmed on Monday.

Speaking to the New York Post, Trump said he would be open to personally meeting Iranian leaders if meaningful progress is achieved during the talks.

According to reports, the delegation also includes Jared Kushner and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, indicating continuity with the team that participated in the first round of negotiations held in Islamabad on April 11.

A source familiar with the development said the delegation would arrive “soon” for renewed peace efforts, as mediator Pakistan continues to push for dialogue between Washington and Tehran.

Pakistan, which brokered a two-week ceasefire on April 8, is also working to ease tensions by urging an end to the US naval blockade of Iranian ports and encouraging Iran’s participation in the talks.

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A senior Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran is “positively reviewing” its involvement, signalling a shift from earlier statements that had ruled out further negotiations.

Separately, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, stressing the importance of sustained dialogue to resolve outstanding issues and ensure regional stability.

Key disagreements persist between the two sides, particularly over control of the Strait of Hormuz and the US-imposed naval blockade on Iranian ports.

Tensions escalated further after US forces reportedly intercepted and seized an Iranian cargo vessel attempting to bypass the blockade. The US military said it disabled the ship after a prolonged standoff, while Iran condemned the action as “armed piracy.”

The situation remains volatile as the ceasefire nears expiry, with both sides continuing to exchange warnings. Trump has reiterated threats of striking Iranian infrastructure if negotiations fail, while Tehran has warned of retaliatory action targeting regional assets.

Despite the heightened rhetoric, diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan are ongoing, with hopes that the latest round of talks could prevent a renewed escalation in the region.