Islamabad peace talks opened in Pakistan’s capital on Saturday. Specifically, Iranian negotiators say they are defending national interests with full resolve. The goal is a permanent end to U.S.-Israeli aggression against Iran.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian announced this on social media. In particular, he praised the Iranian team for negotiating bravely. He added that his government will keep serving people regardless of the outcome.
The talks follow a two-week ceasefire. For instance, Pakistan proposed the truce on Tuesday. However, the U.S. and Israel had launched an unprovoked war against Iran 40 days earlier. The conflict began without any declaration of war from Tehran.
Iran’s delegation arrived in Islamabad on Friday. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf leads the team. In fact, it includes security, political, military, economic, and legal experts. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi is also a key member.
The first round of Islamabad peace talks started at a political level. Later, technical experts joined the discussions. Iranian officials say the focus is a 10-point peace proposal. Tehran had submitted this plan to Washington through intermediaries.
Gharibabadi spoke on the sidelines of the talks. He said Iran is fully prepared for all scenarios. Historical experiences with the U.S. have taught Iran caution. Therefore, he cited a pattern of deceit and broken promises. Consequently, the dynamics of the negotiation have shifted.
These Islamabad peace talks mark a rare direct engagement. Iran and the U.S. have not held official talks in years. Nevertheless, Pakistan plays the role of a mediator. This gives the process regional legitimacy.
The outcome remains uncertain. President Pezeshkian promised the government will stand by its people. He stressed that service to citizens will not stop for a moment. Meanwhile, military and economic experts continue their work.
Future steps depend on the 10-point proposal. If both sides agree, technical committees will draft terms. A permanent peace deal would stop the war. In addition, it could reduce regional tensions significantly.
For now, the world watches Islamabad. The talks represent a fragile but important chance. Iran insists on protecting its sovereignty. The U.S. has not commented publicly on the details. Still, the very act of negotiation offers hope. Finally, both sides must show flexibility.