American and Iranian negotiators have arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan, for sensitive peace talks overshadowed by deep mistrust, sanctions disputes, and unresolved regional tensions that threaten the fragile ceasefire between both sides.

US Vice President JD Vance was welcomed in Islamabad by Pakistan’s foreign minister shortly after the Iranian delegation landed, underlining the high stakes surrounding the negotiations. The meeting is being viewed as one of the most challenging diplomatic tests of Vance’s vice-presidency, with significant political consequences if the talks fail.

Iran’s delegation leader, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said Tehran entered the talks cautiously, stressing that although Iran comes with “good intentions,” it still does not trust the United States. Earlier, Vance warned that Washington would not engage positively if Iran attempted to manipulate the negotiation process.

The talks follow a two-week ceasefire brokered through quiet mediation by Pakistan, whose officials served as intermediaries between both governments in a tightly controlled diplomatic channel. Sources close to the process described the atmosphere as serious and restrained, though still hopeful for a halt in hostilities.

Key disagreements remain unresolved, especially over sanctions and whether Lebanon will be formally included in the ceasefire framework. At the same time, Lebanese negotiators are expected to meet Israeli officials in Washington, adding another layer of complexity to the wider regional diplomacy.

Pakistan’s mediation role reflects its close ties with neighboring Iran as well as its strategic relationship with the United States, making Islamabad a central player in efforts to preserve the fragile truce.