White House Praises Pakistan’s Role in Ceasefire Efforts; Next Iran-US Talks Likely in Islamabad
Washington: The White House has appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts in facilitating a ceasefire between Iran and the United States, indicating that the next round of negotiations may take place in Islamabad.
Speaking at a press briefing, White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said that ongoing talks with Iran are constructive and continuing. She acknowledged Pakistan’s “serious and positive role” in mediation, adding that Islamabad could host the next phase of negotiations.
She emphasized that Pakistan is playing a key intermediary role in the dialogue process between Washington and Tehran.
The spokesperson dismissed reports suggesting that the United States had formally requested an extension in the ceasefire, calling such claims inaccurate.
She also stated that a maritime blockade near the Strait of Hormuz has been fully enforced, targeting vessels linked to Iranian ports.
Meanwhile, she noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping had assured US President Donald Trump that China is not supplying weapons to Iran.
According to sources, the second round of Iran-US negotiations is expected to be held in Islamabad next week, with Pakistani authorities and security institutions already directed to make necessary arrangements.
Reports suggest that the US delegation may include Vice President JD Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner, while Iran could be represented by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
However, an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that no final date has yet been confirmed for the talks.
It is worth noting that the first round of negotiations between the two sides was held in Islamabad on April 11, lasting nearly 21 hours but ending without a formal agreement.
