The United States and Iran held productive talks through an intermediary, but key differences still persist. The two rivals have yet to reach an agreement on key contentious issues, particularly over Tehran’s nuclear programme and other strategic concerns.
However, both have reportedly reached an agreement in principle to extend the fragile ceasefire for a few more weeks, allowing additional time for diplomacy. foreign media reports stated. The ongoing mediation efforts are aimed at sustaining the truce and creating space for further negotiations toward a broader settlement.
Pakistan’s Army Chief Gen Asif Munir, who reached Tehran last evening along with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, held a series of high-level meetings with Iran’s parliamentary speaker Mohammed Baqer Qalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi and other senior leaders to firm up the agenda for the second round of talk, Iranian media reports stated. Earlier, it was expected that the second round of talks would be held on the weekend in Islamabad. Even President Trump indicated about it and stated that there has been a broad understanding between the two sides on major issues
During these discussions, he expressed cautious optimism that both sides would adopt a more flexible and pragmatic approach to bridge their differences and move towards a lasting resolution of the contentious issues. According to reports, the Army Chief also met senior functionaries of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as well as influential clerics, seeking their backing for the proposed framework of negotiations. These engagements were aimed at ensuring internal consensus within Iran ahead of the next phase of dialogue.
The upcoming round of talks is widely seen as critical, as it could determine whether the diplomatic process gains momentum or slips back into stalemate. With regional tensions still high, there is a growing expectation that both sides will show greater willingness to compromise and avoid further escalation.
Meanwhile, the White House spokesperson stated that Islamabad is currently the only active mediator between the United States and Iran in the ongoing negotiations
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that despite interest from several countries, Washington has chosen to maintain a single, streamlined channel through Pakistan to avoid confusion and ensure continuity in dialogue. She noted that the next round of talks is “very likely” to be held again in Islamabad,
The White House has also described the ongoing discussions as “productive and ongoing,” indicating cautious optimism that Pakistan’s mediation could help narrow differences, particularly on contentious issues like Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security concerns. At the same time, officials acknowledge that the upcoming round of talks will be crucial.
