The first round of talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad has concluded after approximately two and a half hours, according to confirmation from two official sources speaking to BBC. Pakistani mediators were also present during the negotiations.
According to a source, the initial phase of discussions was described as “positive.” It has also been confirmed that the talks will resume after a short break, with trilateral engagement continuing.
Sources further indicated that the discussions involved direct face-to-face contact between US and Iranian representatives alongside Pakistani mediation — a development described as historic.
This marks the highest-level direct engagement between Washington and Tehran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
The format of the talks suggests cautious but meaningful engagement, with both sides reportedly identifying areas in their proposals where progress may be possible.
The negotiations come against the backdrop of a conflict that has already pushed global oil prices higher, caused significant damage to energy infrastructure across the Middle East, and resulted in thousands of casualties.
Observers say that if the ceasefire is extended and a final peace agreement is reached, it could bring widespread relief across the region.
For Iran, which has endured years of sanctions, there is hope that any diplomatic breakthrough could provide economic relief. However, some Iranians remain uncertain about the country’s future direction, with concerns expressed over the leadership of a potentially more hardline political environment, even among those displaced by the conflict.
