ISLAMABAD – Iran said Friday that no direct negotiations with the United States are planned in Islamabad, even as American envoys prepare to arrive in the Pakistani capital for what the White House described as continued talks with Tehran.
The conflicting statements highlight the fragile state of diplomatic efforts to end the two-month-old war.
What each side is saying
Iran: Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad on Friday for what Iranian state media described as “bilateral consultations” – not direct meetings with US officials.
United States: The White House said envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will travel to Pakistan on Saturday to meet with Araghchi. Vice President JD Vance will not be attending, the White House confirmed.
Pakistan: The Foreign Ministry confirmed Araghchi’s arrival but did not clarify whether direct US-Iran talks would take place.
Why this matters
A two-week ceasefire brokered by Pakistan earlier this month expired without producing a permanent agreement. Indirect talks have continued, but both sides have struggled to find common ground.
Iran has repeatedly said it will not negotiate under threats. The US has signaled readiness for another round of discussions.
