The United States has dispatched a delegation to Islamabad, Pakistan, to engage in negotiations with Iran, led by Vice President J.D. Vance and special representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. This development follows a ceasefire agreement brokered by Pakistan, which aims to facilitate discussions between the two nations.
White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt confirmed that the first round of talks is scheduled for Saturday morning, expressing optimism about the upcoming meetings. According to Levitt, Iran has proposed a “more sensible, entirely different, and concise plan” for consideration.
Levitt emphasized that President Trump and his team view this revised plan as a working basis for negotiations, which will be aligned with their own 15-point proposal. She reiterated that the President’s fundamental demands remain unchanged, particularly the cessation of uranium enrichment by Iran, and dismissed the notion that Trump would accept Iran’s terms as a viable agreement.
“The only deal the President will accept is one that serves the best interests of the United States,” Levitt stated. The negotiation team is expected to focus their efforts over the next two weeks, contingent on the Strait of Hormuz remaining open without restrictions or delays. These sensitive discussions will take place behind closed doors during this period.
Earlier, President Trump announced a two-week postponement of military action against Iran, indicating that a ceasefire would be mutual. He described Iran’s ten-point proposal as a reasonable foundation for ongoing negotiations.
Trump explained that this decision was made because the U.S. had already achieved and surpassed its military objectives and made progress toward a long-term resolution with Iran. The Iranian National Security Council confirmed the two-week ceasefire agreement, labeling it a victory for Iran, and stated that further negotiations for a permanent agreement would occur in Islamabad.
In a related statement, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed support for Trump’s decision to delay strikes against Iran, provided that Tehran immediately opens the straits and halts all attacks against the U.S., Israel, and regional nations.
On April 8, Trump characterized the ceasefire as a significant step toward global peace, asserting that Tehran’s desire for peace could lead to economic changes worldwide.
On April 6, Trump had set a ten-day deadline for Iran to cease attacks on energy facilities, which he later extended by 20 hours due to a lack of progress in negotiations. Reports indicate that the U.S., Iran, and regional mediators are discussing terms for a 45-day ceasefire, potentially paving the way for an end to hostilities.
Trump has previously threatened to destroy Iran’s infrastructure, including bridges and power plants, should negotiations fail, warning of severe consequences for the Iranian populace and potential regional instability.
On February 28, Israel conducted an airstrike on Tehran, prompting Trump to announce a “major combat operation” against Iran, aimed at neutralizing perceived threats from the Iranian regime. He accused Iran of funding and training militant groups across the region and stated that the operation’s goal was to dismantle Iran’s missile industry and naval capabilities.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for launching missiles and drones toward Israel and attacking U.S. military bases in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
In response to the escalating military actions, French President Emmanuel Macron called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council, while the European Union reaffirmed its commitment to regional security and stability in the Middle East.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the importance of giving Iranians a chance to rid themselves of their “terrorist regime” to ensure safety for all nations affected by Iranian aggression.
On March 28, Trump announced a suspension of attacks on Iranian energy facilities until April 6, attributing this decision to a request from the Iranian government amid ongoing negotiations.
The U.S. has sent a delegation to Pakistan for negotiations with Iran, following a ceasefire agreement. President Trump emphasized the need for a deal that prioritizes U.S. interests while maintaining firm demands regarding Iran's uranium enrichment.