US Negotiators Set for Islamabad Trip as Iran Declines Direct Talks Amid Ongoing Conflict

US negotiators are scheduled to depart for Pakistan on Saturday, amid escalating tensions as Iran has announced it will not engage in direct discussions with American officials. This development comes as the conflict between the two nations has resulted in significant casualties and disrupted global markets.

Key Players and Planned Discussions

President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, along with Jared Kushner, was set to leave on Saturday morning for talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi. The White House confirmed these plans, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in addressing the ongoing crisis.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth remarked that Iran has an opportunity to negotiate a favorable agreement with the United States. He stated, “Iran knows that they still have an open window to choose wisely. All they have to do is abandon a nuclear weapon in meaningful and verifiable ways.”

Iran’s Position and Regional Implications

Aragchi arrived in Islamabad on Friday, but an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson indicated that Iranian officials would not meet with their US counterparts. Instead, Tehran’s concerns would be communicated through Pakistan, which is acting as a mediator.

The ongoing conflict has led to a significant impasse, particularly as Iran has largely closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments. The United States has also imposed restrictions on Iran’s oil exports. As the conflict enters its ninth week, energy prices have surged to multi-year highs, contributing to rising inflation and dimming global economic forecasts.

Following the extension of a ceasefire by Trump, international flights resumed from Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport on Saturday. Initial flights included destinations such as Medina, Muscat, and Istanbul, with further operations expected to ramp up in the coming days.

One passenger expressed relief at the resumption of flights, stating, “When flights resume, trade is done, and people can do their jobs. It’s a good feeling.”

Ongoing Tensions and Military Developments

Iranian airspace has been largely closed since the onset of the conflict, resulting in the cancellation and rerouting of tens of thousands of flights globally. The situation has created a significant impact on air travel across the Middle East due to missile and drone threats.

Trump indicated that Iran is preparing to make an offer to meet US demands, although he did not disclose specifics. He mentioned that the negotiations are with “the people that are in charge now.”

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that the US has observed some progress from Iran in recent days and expressed hope for further developments over the weekend. Vice President JD Vance is also prepared to travel to Pakistan.

Aragchi, who announced plans to visit Pakistan, Oman, and Russia, met with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar at the Serena Hotel on Friday. A US logistics and security team is reportedly in place in Islamabad.

On Saturday, Iran executed an individual identified as Erfan Kiani, who was accused of working for Israeli intelligence and engaging in vandalism during nationwide protests. Iranian authorities labeled him a “hired thug of Mossad,” alleging he incited fear and violence in Isfahan.

Ceasefires and Maritime Activity

Trump extended a two-week ceasefire on Tuesday to facilitate the reconvening of negotiators. This week, oil prices experienced a notable increase, with Brent crude futures rising by 16 percent amid uncertainty surrounding the peace talks and escalating violence in the region.

Recent shipping data indicated that only five vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz in the previous 24 hours, a stark contrast to the approximately 130 that typically transit the strait daily before the conflict began on February 28. Among the vessels was an Iranian oil-products tanker, but no large crude-carrying supertankers were reported.

An Iranian defense ministry spokesperson stated, “The enemy, whose objective of crippling Iran’s missile and military capabilities has failed, is now seeking an honorable exit from the quagmire of war. Iran is today in firm control of the Strait of Hormuz.”

On Thursday, Israel and Lebanon extended their ceasefire for three weeks during a White House meeting facilitated by Trump. However, fighting in southern Lebanon shows little sign of abating. Israel’s military actions in Lebanon have resulted in casualties on both sides, with reports of six deaths from an Israeli strike and the downing of an Israeli drone by Hezbollah.

For further details, visit the original reporting source: www.arnnewscentre.ae.

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Published on 2026-04-24 20:24:00 • By the Editorial Desk