Trump sending Witkoff and Kushner to Pakistan to resume talks on Iran war

US Vice-President JD Vance is expected to lead a US delegation to Pakistan on Tuesday if Iran agrees to further talks. The delegation will include Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The deadline for the current ceasefire looms, with Iran's president expressing concerns about "unconstructive and contradictory signals" from American officials. Iran's parliamentary speaker has stated that the country will not accept negotiations under threat. Meanwhile, the UN's humanitarian agency head Tom Fletcher warned of the devastating impact of the war on developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and east Africa, where food and fuel inflation is reaching close to 20%. The conflict has also been linked to human rights abuses, including gendered violence and sexual assault against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.

Pakistan is urgently trying to persuade Iran to rejoin US talks in Islamabad aimed at ending their eight-week war, as a ceasefire deadline approaches on Wednesday. US Vice President JD Vance, along with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are expected to arrive in Pakistan to resume negotiations. However, recent escalatory actions by the US have complicated Pakistan's mediation efforts. Despite Pakistan's efforts, Iran publicly maintains it has no plans to return to negotiations, with an Iranian ambassador referencing that they will not negotiate under threat. The arrival of US personnel and equipment in Pakistan further underscores the urgency of the situation.

US President Donald Trump announced an indefinite extension of the ceasefire with Iran hours before it was set to expire at the request of Pakistan. The decision came after a last-minute appeal from Pakistani Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Trump stated that the US naval blockade would continue, despite the extension. This reversal comes after Trump previously threatened to extend the ceasefire in an interview with CNBC on Tuesday. The move is seen as a temporary measure aimed at stabilizing the situation in Iran, where the government is reportedly "seriously fractured." A second round of talks between the US and Iranian representatives is expected to take place in Islamabad.

President Trump is sending Middle East envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Pakistan to resume peace talks aimed at ending an eight-week war with Iran. The negotiations, taking place in Islamabad, will involve meeting with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Araghchi is seeking a permanent US-Israeli commitment to cease attacks on Iran, a key demand. While Vice President JD Vance is not traveling, he remains on standby. Iran has previously stated it would not restart talks until the US lifts its blockade of Iranian ports, while the US demands verifiable assurances on Iran's nuclear program and a lifting of Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran is reportedly considering options for its enriched uranium stockpile in exchange for sanctions relief.

US negotiators, according to President Trump, will travel to Islamabad, Pakistan on Monday for a second round of talks with Iranian negotiators aimed at ending the US-Israel war on Iran. The previous talks, led by Vice President Vance, concluded without an agreement. Trump accused Iran of violating the existing ceasefire, set to expire Wednesday, by opening fire in the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday. He threatened severe repercussions, including the destruction of Iranian infrastructure, if Iran doesn't accept the US deal. Iran has not confirmed participation in the new talks, citing a US naval blockade as a violation of the ceasefire and an "unlawful and criminal" act.

President Trump extended the ceasefire with Iran, initially set to expire Wednesday, to allow Iran more time to develop a unified proposal to end the ongoing war. The decision followed a day of diplomatic uncertainty, including the postponement of a planned trip by Vice President JD Vance to Islamabad for peace talks mediated by Pakistan. While Vance never officially announced the trip, Iran also never committed to attending the talks. Trump's decision marks the second time in recent weeks he has delayed escalating the conflict. The extension's duration was not specified, unlike a previous two-week ceasefire deadline. Trump announced the extension via Truth Social, citing a request from Pakistan.

The United States and Iran both issued warnings on Monday that they were prepared for war amid uncertainty surrounding ceasefire talks. The US stated Vice-President J.D. Vance was ready to return to Islamabad, Pakistan, for a second round of negotiations aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. However, Iran has not confirmed its participation, accusing the US of violating the existing truce through its blockade of Iranian ports and seizure of a ship. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that Iran will not negotiate under threats and has been preparing for renewed hostilities. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards have also threatened to target vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz without permission.

A US delegation, led by Vice-President JD Vance, is traveling to Pakistan for potential talks with Iran aimed at ending the ongoing US-Israeli war in Iran. The visit, scheduled for Monday, follows Iran's reimposition of restrictions on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz after the US refused to lift its naval blockade. The war, now in its eighth week, has resulted in thousands of deaths and increased oil prices. While Iran has yet to confirm its participation, Trump has stated that these talks represent Iran's "last chance" to agree to a peace deal. He threatened to destroy Iranian infrastructure, including power plants and bridges, if Iran does not accept the US proposal, which involves reopening the Strait and ensuring Iran does not have enriched uranium.

Donald Trump stated that US-Iran peace talks could resume in Islamabad within the next two days, praising Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, for his mediation efforts. Trump indicated a greater inclination to return to Pakistan for negotiations due to Munir's involvement. These comments followed a previous round of talks in Islamabad that ended with the US side walking out, citing Iran's lack of commitment regarding nuclear weapons. The US subsequently declared a naval blockade on ships using Iranian ports, leading to some vessels rerouting. Islamabad is working to arrange a meeting before the ceasefire ends on April 22nd.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is visiting Saudi Arabia and Turkiye this week to promote further US-Iran negotiations. This follows a two-week ceasefire halting US and Israeli strikes on Iran. President Zardari has urged continued engagement with the US, Iran, and other key powers to sustain the peace process. Despite recent unsuccessful talks between US and Iranian officials, there is growing support for Sharif's initiative, with President Trump suggesting talks could resume in Pakistan soon. Reports indicate that Tehran and Washington have agreed to more talks, although the details are yet to be finalized.

Following failed high-level talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, the U.S. began enforcing a naval blockade targeting Iranian maritime traffic in April 2026. Despite the breakdown in negotiations, retired Pakistani Lt. Gen. Mohammed Saeed, privy to the talks, believes diplomacy between the U.S. and Iran is still possible. He stated that both sides were close to an agreement and expressed willingness to resume engagement. The U.S., led by Vice President JD Vance, demanded Iran commit to a "zero enrichment" policy and eliminate its enriched uranium stockpile. President Trump defended the blockade, asserting its effectiveness in crippling Iran's economy and military capabilities.

Following inconclusive talks in Islamabad regarding its nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz, Iran is attempting to engage European powers to increase pressure on the United States. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi briefed European counterparts on Iran's proposals after being sidelined by the US. Iran hopes to leverage a potential transatlantic divide and economic pressures on Europe to influence President Trump. European nations are considering a defensive naval alliance to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz after the conflict ends, requiring discussions with Tehran. Analysts suggest Iran aims to either sway Europe towards its position or exploit divisions within Europe to counter US influence.

Pakistan, with China's assistance, recently hosted high-stakes US-Iran talks in Islamabad, unexpectedly positioning itself at the center of diplomacy amid ongoing conflict. The talks, involving US Vice-President J.D. Vance, concluded without a deal due to Iran's rejection of US terms regarding its nuclear program. China's interest in preventing escalation in the Gulf to protect energy flows is seen as a key factor in facilitating Pakistan's diplomatic role. Despite India's larger economy and military, the crisis has temporarily elevated Pakistan's relevance due to its strategic alignment with China. China is reportedly importing large quantities of Iranian oil via the Strait of Hormuz.

In April 2026, the United States and Iran have established a ceasefire after direct meetings, but the future of the agreement is uncertain. The article argues that President Trump's political future and the Republican party's success in the upcoming midterm elections depend on the public's perception of the conflict's outcome. To secure a lasting peace, the article suggests the US prioritize opening the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping to stabilize the global economy and oil prices. Additionally, the US should focus on bolstering domestic pressure on the Iranian regime by supporting the Iranian protest movement with resources and weapons, rather than continuing bombing campaigns. The article emphasizes the importance of these actions for the US to "win" the ceasefire and achieve a favorable peace agreement.

Tensions in the Middle East are escalating as Iran states it will retaliate against any threats, following US President Trump's suggestion of a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and potential strikes on Iranian water facilities. Iranian negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned of reciprocal action if attacked. Meanwhile, a US delegation led by JD Vance concluded a visit to Pakistan without reaching an agreement with Iran. Separately, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported dismantling a rocket launcher in southern Lebanon, claiming it was positioned to launch towards Israel. The IDF stated the action prevented an imminent attack.

Following failed peace negotiations in Pakistan, Donald Trump announced the US will blockade the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway controlled by Iran. The US president threatened further action, including bombing Iranian infrastructure, if Iran doesn't abandon its nuclear program. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards responded that any attempt to enforce a blockade would be considered a breach of the ceasefire. The US claims the blockade aims to stop Iran from extorting ships passing through the strait, while Iran insists the strait remains under its control. The US also intends to de-mine the central section of the strait. This action risks escalating tensions and could impact relations with countries like China and India that import Iranian oil.

On day 44 of the US-Iran conflict, talks held in Islamabad, Pakistan, aimed at ending the war, concluded without an agreement. The 21-hour negotiations, intended to solidify a fragile ceasefire, failed due to disagreements, with both sides blaming each other. The conflict, ongoing for over six weeks, has resulted in thousands of deaths, primarily in Iran, and has significantly impacted global oil and gas prices. While the US delegation, led by Vice President JD Vance, expressed disappointment, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated that Islamabad would continue to facilitate future peace talks. Despite skepticism among Iranian residents, there remains hope for a resolution to the conflict, which has claimed over 2,000 Iranian lives.

US Vice President JD Vance has been dispatched to Islamabad to negotiate a peace deal with Iran, marking his first major assignment amid ongoing US-Israeli military action. Vance's task is to solidify a ceasefire and negotiate the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iran, emboldened by its control of the strait, demands the release of blocked assets as a precondition for negotiations. The success of these talks, the highest-level meeting since 1979, could significantly impact Vance's political future, particularly his potential 2028 presidential run. The negotiations face uncertainty due to recent Israeli strikes and disagreements over Lebanon's inclusion in the ceasefire, setting the stage for potentially difficult and protracted discussions.

Negotiations between the US and Iran are set to begin in Islamabad, Pakistan on Saturday, aimed at resolving the month-long Middle East conflict under a fragile two-week ceasefire brokered by Pakistan. US Vice-President J.D. Vance is leading the American delegation, while Iran's delegation is headed by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Iran has set preconditions for the talks, including a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of frozen assets. US President Trump has pressured Iran to meet US demands, warning of potential military action if diplomacy fails, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear program. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed hope for constructive engagement and a lasting solution to the conflict.

US Vice President JD Vance departed for Pakistan on April 10, 2026, to lead talks aimed at ending the US-Israeli war with Iran. The negotiations, scheduled for the following day in Islamabad, are intended to build on previous indirect talks regarding Iran's nuclear program. Vance stated he expects "positive" results if Iran negotiates in good faith, citing "pretty clear guidelines" from President Trump. Some observers believe Vance's appointment signals Iran's preference for him over other US envoys, such as Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who will still be in attendance. Vance, while loyal to Trump, is considered less hawkish and representative of the anti-interventionist wing of the MAGA movement.

Following a newly established US-Iran ceasefire, Israel's intense bombing of Beirut and other Lebanese cities has drawn international condemnation and threatened to destabilize the truce. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for negotiations with Lebanon focusing on Hezbollah's disarmament, but did not commit to halting the strikes, which have killed over 200 people in the past 24 hours. Iran has warned it may close the Strait of Hormuz again in response to the Israeli attacks, jeopardizing US-Iranian talks scheduled in Pakistan. Despite claims of progress by the US president, the ceasefire is in danger of collapsing as Iran insists negotiations are "meaningless" while Israel continues its bombardment of Lebanon. Pakistan has condemned Israel's actions and urged restraint.

Amid ongoing Israeli attacks on Lebanon, US-Iran ceasefire talks are threatened. The attacks, which occurred on Wednesday, killed at least 300 people and injured over 1,150. Talks are scheduled to take place in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Saturday, with US Vice President JD Vance attending. Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that "time is running out" due to Israel's continued actions. The purpose of the talks is to establish a ceasefire between the US and Iran.

Despite a US-brokered ceasefire between the US and Iran, Israeli attacks on Lebanon intensified on Thursday, jeopardizing the truce. These attacks followed Israel's largest strikes on Lebanon, resulting in over 250 deaths. While Iranian negotiators are scheduled to meet with a US delegation in Pakistan for peace talks, Iran maintains its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, exacerbating global energy supply disruptions and pushing oil prices to record highs. Israel claims its actions in Lebanon, where it invaded to target Hezbollah, are not covered by the ceasefire, a position supported by the US but disputed by Iran and Pakistan. Several countries, including Britain and France, have condemned Israel's actions and called for the ceasefire to include Lebanon.

Asian stocks mostly rose on Friday, April 10, 2026, following gains on Wall Street, while oil prices increased due to the fragile Iran war ceasefire and upcoming U.S.-Iran peace talks in Pakistan. South Korea's Kospi and Japan's Nikkei 225 saw significant gains, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng and the Shanghai Composite also rose. China reported a lower-than-expected consumer price index increase for March. The U.S. and Iran are scheduled to begin peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, led by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, aiming for a permanent ceasefire in the Iran war. However, recent Israeli strikes on Lebanon and Iran's continued control over the Strait of Hormuz have raised concerns about the ceasefire's stability.

Petrol and diesel prices have risen again due to concerns about the US-Iran ceasefire's stability. Initial drops in oil prices after the ceasefire announcement were reversed on Thursday amid doubts fueled by Israeli strikes on Lebanon and Iranian warnings. The Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route, remains a point of contention, further impacting prices. Brent crude rose 3.2% to $97.94 a barrel, reflecting market anxiety. Since the war began on February 28th, wholesale oil prices have increased by 35%, leading to higher costs at the pump, with average petrol prices at 158.03p a litre and diesel at 191.11p on Thursday in the UK. While one motoring group anticipates price drops if the ceasefire holds, another warns against expecting significant reductions soon.