Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are set to travel to Islamabad on Saturday for high-level discussions involving Iran, as the United States seeks progress in ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region.
The talks are being facilitated through mediation involving Pakistan, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who confirmed that the Trump administration has seen “some progress” from the Iranian side in recent days.
Renewed Diplomatic Push
Speaking from the White House, Leavitt said the goal of the upcoming meeting is to allow Iranian representatives to present their position as efforts continue to explore a potential framework for renewed negotiations.
She added that further progress is hoped for, with senior US officials closely monitoring developments.
Iran’s Participation and Regional Diplomacy
Reports indicate that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi was also expected in Islamabad to discuss proposals related to restarting peace talks with the United States.
The diplomatic activity signals an intensified effort to restart stalled discussions following earlier rounds of negotiations.
US Leadership on Standby
Vice President JD Vance reportedly remains on standby to join talks if significant progress is achieved.
According to the White House, senior officials including the president, vice president, and secretary of state are closely tracking the situation from Washington.
Ceasefire Extension Adds Pressure for Progress
President Donald Trump recently extended a temporary ceasefire window with Iran to allow additional time for diplomatic negotiations, underscoring the urgency to reach a long-term resolution.
The extension reflects ongoing efforts to prevent further escalation and create space for a negotiated settlement.
A Critical Diplomatic Moment
With multiple high-level figures involved and regional mediation underway, the upcoming Islamabad talks are being closely watched as a potential turning point in US-Iran relations.
While officials remain cautious, the latest developments suggest renewed momentum in efforts to stabilize the situation through diplomacy rather than escalation.
