ISLAMABAD/WASHINGTON: Iranian International Minister Abbas Araqchi arrived in the Pakistani capital Islamabad on Friday (Apr 24) to debate proposals for restarting peace talks with the US, providing some hope for an finish to the eight-week battle that has killed hundreds and sown turmoil in world markets.
US President Donald Trump stated on Friday that Iran plans to make a proposal geared toward satisfying American calls for, however stated he didn’t but know what the supply entailed.
When requested who the US was negotiating with, Trump stated: “I do not need to say that, however we’re coping with the folks which are in cost now.”
However Iran’s international ministry spokesperson stated on X that Iranian officers didn’t plan to satisfy with US representatives, though the White Home stated particular envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner would journey to Pakistan on Saturday.
Iran’s considerations can be conveyed to Pakistan, the spokesperson stated.
After a US bombing marketing campaign and Iran’s blocking of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, the 2 international locations are at a expensive deadlock, with Iran’s oil exports blocked and US gasoline costs at multi-year highs.
Talking earlier than the Iranian international ministry’s assertion, White Home press secretary Karoline Leavitt struck an upbeat tone, as she confirmed Witkoff and Kusher have been departing for Islamabad.
She stated the US had seen some progress from the Iranian aspect in latest days and hoped extra would come this weekend.
She added that US Vice President JD Vance, who earlier this month led a primary spherical of unsuccessful talks with Iran to finish their battle, is able to journey to Pakistan as effectively.
The White Home didn’t instantly reply to a request for touch upon the Iranian assertion.
Pakistani sources stated earlier {that a} US logistics and safety staff was already in place in Islamabad for potential talks.
Pakistan’s international ministry confirmed Araqchi‘s arrival in Islamabad, the place a heavy army and paramilitary presence was seen throughout the central components of the town.
Araqchi went straight into a gathering with Pakistani International Minister Ishaq Dar on the Serena Lodge, the place the primary spherical of talks with the US was held, two authorities sources stated.
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani pledged his nation’s assist for mediation efforts by Pakistan in a cellphone name with Trump, Qatar’s state information company reported.
Araqchi wrote on X that he was visiting Pakistan, Oman and Russia to coordinate with companions on bilateral issues and seek the advice of on regional developments. The tour will embody consultations on the most recent efforts to finish the battle, Iran’s International Ministry spokesperson later informed state media.
Protection Secretary Pete Hegseth told a briefing earlier on Friday that Iran had an opportunity to make a “whole lot” with the US.
The final spherical of peace talks had been anticipated to renew on Tuesday however by no means happened, with Iran saying it was not but able to decide to attending and a US delegation led by Vance by no means leaving Washington.
Trump unilaterally prolonged a two-week ceasefire on Tuesday to permit extra time to reconvene the negotiators.
Oil costs remained risky on Friday, as merchants weighed potential disruption from the worst oil shock in historical past amid the prospect for additional talks.
Brent crude futures settled at US$105.33 a barrel, about 0.3 per cent larger, whereas US West Texas intermediate futures have been down 1 per cent at US$94.88.
