Pakistan is set to host key US-Iran war mediation talks in Islamabad this weekend, with top diplomats from across the Middle East attending to discuss peace.
Senior diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt, along with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, will lead the discussions, focusing on de-escalation and regional stability.
The talks will also involve representatives from ongoing backchannel diplomacy between Iran and the United States, although it remains unclear who will represent Tehran.
US Vice President JD Vance could be involved in leading the US side of the conversation, but Tehran has indicated that talks led by US special envoy Steve Witkoff or Jared Kushner would be unlikely to succeed.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken on a central role in facilitating communication between Tehran and Washington, acting as an intermediary for messages between the two sides.
Despite the diplomatic push, Iran has signaled caution, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressing doubts over ongoing efforts and accusing the United States of making 'unreasonable demands'.
The talks come as military tensions remain high, with US naval ships carrying around 3,500 Marines and Sailors arriving in the region.
