Pakistan announces start of second round of US-Iran talks in Islamabad
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- Pakistan says second round of US-Iran talks has begun in Islamabad.
- Iran denies participation, raising doubts over the format and scope.
Pakistan has announced the start of a second round of talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad, despite conflicting statements from Tehran denying any current participation in the process.
The announcement underscores the uncertainty surrounding the diplomatic track, which is being conducted under an indirect mediation framework.
Pakistan confirms launch of talks
The Pakistani government said on Monday that preparations had been completed and the second round of discussions had formally begun in the capital.
The talks are being facilitated through indirect channels, with Pakistan acting as a mediator between the two sides.
Iran rejects participation claims
Iranian state media quoted senior sources in Tehran as saying there are “no plans or intention” to take part in a new round of negotiations with Washington at this stage.
The contradiction between the announcements highlights ongoing tensions over whether formal negotiations are actually taking place or whether communication remains limited to mediated exchanges.
Indirect mediation framework
The process is reportedly being conducted through shuttle diplomacy, with Pakistani officials transferring messages between delegations rather than direct meetings.
Under the arrangement, Pakistan is acting as a facilitator, relaying proposals between US and Iranian representatives positioned separately in Islamabad.
Delegation uncertainty
Reports suggest the US side is being represented by senior political figures including JD Vance and Jared Kushner, while possible Iranian involvement has been linked to figures such as Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Abbas Araghchi, although participation remains unconfirmed.
Despite the announcement of a new round, the lack of confirmed direct engagement leaves the status of the talks uncertain.
Diplomatic observers say the contradictory messaging reflects deep mistrust between Washington and Tehran and the fragility of any current mediation efforts.
