Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has emphasized the urgent need for the United States and Iran to strictly follow their ceasefire commitments after the conclusion of high-level negotiations in Islamabad. The talks, which lasted nearly 21 hours, ended without a formal agreement, but both sides presented their positions on key issues.
The discussions were led by US Vice President JD Vance and Iran’s Parliament Speaker Bagher Ghalibaf, covering sensitive matters including nuclear policy, sanctions, and regional security. Despite the long negotiations, Vance stated that no agreement had been reached and described it as more unfavorable for Iran. He also mentioned that the US had presented its final proposal, leaving the decision to Tehran.
After the talks, Vance departed Islamabad while senior Pakistani officials, including Ishaq Dar, Asim Munir, and Mohsin Naqvi, saw him off. Dar expressed gratitude to both countries for participating in the talks and responding to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s call for peace and dialogue.
Dar highlighted Pakistan’s active role in mediating the discussions, stating that multiple rounds of intense negotiations were held to bridge differences. He stressed that maintaining the ceasefire is extremely important to prevent further conflict and instability in the region.
The ongoing conflict, which began in late February, has already resulted in over 2,000 deaths and caused major disruption in the Gulf region, including threats to global energy supply routes. While a ceasefire was announced on April 8, significant disagreements remain between the two sides.
The United States has proposed a 15 point framework focusing on nuclear control, sanctions relief, and reopening key shipping routes. Meanwhile, Iran has offered a 10 point plan seeking stronger control over regional waterways and full removal of sanctions.
Pakistan has assured that it will continue playing a mediator role, encouraging both nations to maintain dialogue and work towards lasting peace. The international community has widely appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to reduce tensions and promote regional stability.
