JD Vance arrives in Pakistan to lead high-stakes ceasefire talks with Iran

We’re wrapping up this live coverage — but we’ll be back soon

The 21-hour peace talks in Islamabad have concluded without an agreement. Stay tuned for further analysis on the US-Iran conflict and its impact on global stability.

You can find the latest developments here.

Vice President JD Vance officially boarded Air Force Two at 7:08 a.m. local time in Islamabad, marking the end of the American delegation’s mission to Pakistan. The departure follows a 21-hour marathon of negotiations that failed to secure a permanent deal to end the war with Iran.

The impasse stems from Iran’s refusal to concede on U.S. demands regarding its nuclear weapons program. The war, which began in late February, had seen a momentary pause following a two-week ceasefire agreement reached on April 7 specifically to facilitate these talks.

As the Vice President returns to Washington, the future of the regional security situation remains uncertain, with the ceasefire’s expiration looming and no formal roadmap for peace currently in place.

Following the collapse of the U.S.-Iran negotiations, Vice President JD Vance delivered a remarkably brief press conference in Islamabad. Flanked by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in front of American flags, the Vice President’s formal remarks lasted only one minute.

Vance took exactly three questions from the gathered press corps before concluding the session. The entire appearance lasted just over three minutes, ending with a brief word of thanks before the delegation walked away without addressing further inquiries.

The brevity of the statement reflects the somber mood following the 21-hour marathon session that failed to produce a lasting peace agreement.

Following the conclusion of negotiations in Islamabad, Vice President JD Vance revealed that President Donald Trump was kept closely informed throughout the process. Vance stated he spoke with the President “a half dozen times, a dozen times, over the past 21 hours” to coordinate the American position.

In addition to frequent calls with the White House, the Vice President was in constant contact with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Adm. Brad Cooper of U.S. Central Command. Vance emphasized that this high level of internal communication was necessary because the U.S. was “negotiating in good faith.”

The involvement of top economic and military leadership underscores the broad scope of the issues—from sanctions to maritime security—that were on the table during the failed summit.

In a significant diplomatic setback, Vice President JD Vance announced that 21 hours of high-stakes negotiations in Islamabad have ended without a deal. The collapse of the talks follows Iran’s refusal to accept American terms regarding the development of nuclear weapons.

Vance, who remained in constant communication with President Donald Trump throughout the marathon sessions, told reporters that the U.S. required an “affirmative commitment” that Tehran would not seek nuclear capabilities or the tools to achieve them quickly. “That is the core goal of the President of the United States,” Vance emphasized.

The conclusion of these talks without a formal agreement leaves the region in a state of uncertainty, as the fragile ceasefire faces its most severe test yet. The U.S. delegation is expected to depart Pakistan shortly following this announcement.

A third round of intensive ceasefire negotiations in Islamabad concluded before dawn on Sunday local time. According to Pakistani officials, discussions between the heads of the delegations—Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf—are set to resume following a scheduled break.

While the senior leaders rest, technical personnel from both the U.S. and Iranian teams are reportedly still meeting to work through the finer details of the peace framework. The marathon nature of these sessions, stretching into a second day, highlights the complexity of the issues being addressed.

Pakistani mediators continue to facilitate these high-stakes interactions, with the international community closely watching for any signs of a definitive breakthrough in the coming hours.

Speaking to reporters outside the White House, President Donald Trump took a dismissive tone toward the ongoing negotiations in Pakistan, claiming a military victory and stating that the outcome of the talks “makes no difference” to the United States. “Regardless what happens, we win,” Trump asserted.

While acknowledging that “very deep negotiations” are indeed taking place, the President maintained that the U.S. remains in a position of total strength. He reiterated that the military is actively searching for and clearing mines in the Strait of Hormuz, which remains largely closed to commercial oil and gas traffic.

Trump’s comments, “Maybe they make a deal, maybe they don’t—it doesn’t matter,” contrast sharply with the intense, marathon diplomatic efforts currently involving his own Vice President, JD Vance, in Islamabad.

A spokesperson for Iran’s joint military command has dismissed earlier claims by the United States that two Navy destroyers transited the Strait of Hormuz. According to Iranian state media, the military command asserted that the “initiative over the passage of any vessel rests with the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

The Strait of Hormuz remains a central flashpoint in the ongoing conflict, as it is the world’s most vital energy corridor, previously handling 20% of global oil and natural gas trade. This dispute over maritime control is expected to be one of the most contentious issues in the trilateral negotiations currently underway in Islamabad.

The conflicting reports between Washington and Tehran highlight the fragile nature of the security situation even as diplomatic efforts continue late into the night in Pakistan.

It is now past midnight in Islamabad, and at least six hours have passed since the official start of face-to-face negotiations. Despite the late hour, there are currently no signs that the talks between the U.S., Iran, and Pakistan have concluded.

The marathon nature of these sessions suggests that negotiators are engaged in deep, perhaps difficult, discussions over the terms of a potential peace roadmap. Security remains tight around the venue as the world waits for any official statement regarding the progress made during these extended trilateral meetings.

A senior White House official traveling with Vice President JD Vance has confirmed that trilateral negotiations between the United States, Iran, and Pakistan are still ongoing as of 10:21 p.m. local time in Islamabad.

The late-night session indicates the intensity of the discussions as all parties work through complex diplomatic and security issues. Reporters on the ground suggest that the extended duration of today’s meetings could point toward a push for a concrete framework before the summit concludes.

The health ministry in Lebanon has reported that the death toll from Israeli strikes has reached 2,020 since the start of the war with Hezbollah nearly six weeks ago. The casualties include 248 women, 165 children, and 85 health workers, with over 6,400 people wounded.

In the last 24 hours alone, nearly 100 people were killed as hostilities continued. While a tentative truce is currently in place in Iran, a major diplomatic dispute has emerged: the U.S. and Israel maintain that the ceasefire agreement does not extend to Lebanon, whereas Tehran insists that it does.

This disagreement over the scope of the truce is expected to be one of the most difficult challenges in the ongoing negotiations currently being held in Islamabad, as mediators struggle to find a regional solution to the conflict.

In his most forceful address to date, Pope Leo XIV has condemned the “delusion of omnipotence” driving the U.S.-Israel war in Iran. Speaking during an evening prayer service at St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pope demanded an immediate end to the display of power and called for political leaders to embrace peace.

While the Pope did not explicitly name President Donald Trump, his message—delivered as face-to-face talks began in Islamabad—appeared clearly directed at the rhetoric of military superiority used to justify the war. “Enough of the idolatry of self and money! Enough of the display of power! Enough of war!” Leo proclaimed.

As history’s first U.S.-born Pope, his intervention adds significant moral pressure on the American delegation currently negotiating in Pakistan, emphasizing the global demand for a sustainable ceasefire.

Following a brief recess, U.S. and Iranian officials have resumed a second round of high-stakes negotiations on Saturday night in Islamabad. According to Pakistani officials, both delegations are now being assisted by technical experts to navigate complex points of the potential agreement.

Pakistan’s top political and military leadership remains heavily involved, reportedly urging both sides to bridge their differences for the sake of regional stability. Sources close to the talks indicate that the mediation is focused on achieving a “win-win” solution that ensures durable peace.

While specific details are being kept confidential, the resumption of talks for a second session on the same day is seen as a positive sign of active engagement and progress toward resolving the conflict.

In a phone interview with NewsNation, President Donald Trump confirmed the official start of trilateral talks in Islamabad but admitted he has “no idea” how successful the negotiations will be. Trump emphasized that he would assess Iran’s “good faith” in a very short period to determine the next steps.

Parallel to the diplomatic efforts, Trump revealed that the U.S. military is deploying specialized equipment to remove sea mines from the Strait of Hormuz. He asserted that the U.S. knows the exact locations of these mines and is taking action to ensure the vital energy corridor is reopened to global shipping.

The President’s remarks highlight a “trust but verify” approach, as the U.S. delegation, led by JD Vance, engages in the most significant direct diplomacy with Tehran in decades.

A Pakistani official with direct knowledge of the peace efforts has confirmed that negotiations between the U.S. and Iranian delegations are “progressing well.” While the official declined to specify if the parties were currently in the same room, they noted that the session has gained momentum.

The source, speaking on condition of anonymity, indicated that the start of the dialogue is a positive sign for the durability of the current diplomatic framework. This comes amidst a heavy security presence and intense international interest in the outcome of the Islamabad summit.

The focus of the current session is believed to be the establishment of a sustainable roadmap for regional de-escalation and the management of strategic maritime routes.

The White House has officially released the names of the U.S. officials participating in the high-stakes negotiations to end the Iran war. Leading the delegation is Vice President JD Vance, supported by President Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.

In addition to the top leadership, the White House confirmed that Andrew Baker (National Security Adviser to the VP) and Michael Vance (Special Adviser for Asian Affairs) are also participating in the direct sessions with Iranian and Pakistani officials.

The inclusion of these key policy advisers highlights the technical and strategic depth of the discussions currently happening behind closed doors in the Pakistani capital.

The White House has confirmed that high-stakes, face-to-face meetings between the United States, Iran, and Pakistan are officially underway. This meeting serves as a critical test for the current ceasefire’s durability and the possibility of a permanent end to the Iran war.

Vice President JD Vance is leading the U.S. side alongside Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The discussions are taking place against a backdrop of rising global energy prices, which have surged since military actions began in late February.

Despite the diplomatic push, President Donald Trump has continued to issue provocative statements on social media, suggesting the U.S. energy sector could benefit from the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The outcome of today’s session is expected to dictate the next phase of regional stability.

In a move that could complicate ongoing negotiations, the U.S. State Department has revoked the green cards of several long-term Iranian residents related to senior Iranian officials. Among those detained for deportation is Seyed Eissa Hashemi, a psychology teacher in Los Angeles, along with his wife and son.

Hashemi is the son of Masoumeh Ebtekar, a former Iranian Vice President known for her role in the 1979 U.S. Embassy hostage crisis. The timing of this action, coming exactly as face-to-face talks begin in Islamabad, is seen by analysts as an “escalation of pressure” by the Trump administration.

This follows a similar move last week against the relatives of the late IRGC chief Qasem Soleimani. The State Department confirmed that those affected have been taken into custody by immigration authorities and are slated for immediate deportation.

Diplomatic sources in Islamabad report that the ongoing trilateral talks have entered a “substantive phase,” focusing on the technicalities of a long-term ceasefire and the mechanism for unblocking international oil trade routes.

While tensions remain high following recent rhetoric, the presence of Jared Kushner and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in the same room is being viewed as the most significant diplomatic engagement since the conflict began.

Pakistan’s Foreign Office has extended the session into the evening, indicating that both sides are willing to stay at the table to iron out “complex security guarantees.”

The high-level Iranian delegation, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, held a formal meeting with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif today in Islamabad.

Prime Minister Sharif was joined by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. According to the PM’s Office, Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s “sincere resolve” to facilitate the talks and build momentum toward regional stability.

Islamabad April 11 ,2026.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with the Iranian delegation at the Islamabad Talks today.

The Iranian side was led by the Honorable Speaker of the Iranian Consultative Assembly, Mr. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, assisted by Foreign… pic.twitter.com/xUSCq9sGpS

— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) April 11, 2026

While the details of the discussion remain confidential, the meeting is a critical step in Pakistan’s shuttle diplomacy as it coordinates between the U.S. and Iranian delegations to encourage direct negotiations.

In a significant military move, the Saudi Defense Ministry confirmed on Saturday that Pakistani forces, including fighter jets and support aircraft, have arrived at King Abdulaziz Air Base.

The deployment is part of a strategic defense agreement signed in September, which stipulates that an attack on one nation is considered an attack on both. The airbase has previously been a target for drone and missile strikes during the conflict with Iran.

According to Saudi officials, the move is intended to “enhance joint military coordination” and bolster regional security. This deployment occurs even as Islamabad hosts high-level peace negotiations between U.S. and Iranian delegations.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance held a high-level meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday to discuss the framework of the peace negotiations with Iran. Vance was joined by a high-powered delegation, including Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to acting as a neutral facilitator, expressing hope that the dialogue would lead to “sustainable peace” in the region. The White House and the Prime Minister’s Office both confirmed the session as a key precursor to the direct U.S.-Iran engagement.

As the Islamabad Talks commenced today, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with His Excellency JD Vance, Vice President of the United States of America.

The U.S. Vice President was assisted by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Mr. Jared Kushner.… pic.twitter.com/WtcP4L7Yfg

— Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (@MoIB_Official) April 11, 2026

This diplomatic push comes at a critical time as international mediators look to Pakistan to help bridge the divide between Washington and Tehran.

Indonesia has formally welcomed the “encouraging” start to negotiations in Pakistan, calling on both the United States and Iran to prioritize a long-term diplomatic resolution to their ongoing conflict.

Speaking to Turkey’s Anadolu Agency, Indonesian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Vahd Nabyl described the talks as a positive step that “creates space for diplomacy.” He emphasized that Jakarta views this development as a critical opportunity to consolidate de-escalation across the region.

Indonesia further urged all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint while respecting international sovereignty and territorial integrity to ensure the success of the peace process.

A group of high-level officials from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, China, and Qatar have arrived in the Pakistani capital to act as indirect facilitators for the high-stakes negotiations between the U.S. and Iran.

While the talks are primarily focused on direct engagement, these third-country mediators are expected to bridge diplomatic gaps and provide a neutral channel for communication. Regional officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that the presence of these global powers is aimed at ensuring the stability of the fragile peace process.

The involvement of such a diverse group of mediators highlights the global importance of the “Islamabad Talks” in preventing further escalation in the Middle East.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has expressed significant skepticism as the delegation enters talks with the U.S., citing “deep distrust” rooted in previous military strikes sustained during past nuclear negotiations.

In a statement posted via Telegram, Araghchi’s office warned that Iran remains prepared to retaliate if its sovereignty is compromised. He further demanded an immediate cessation of Israeli military operations in Lebanon, framing it as a critical factor for regional stability.

The remarks underscore the fragile nature of the Islamabad summit, where historical grievances continue to shadow the diplomatic agenda.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance has officially landed in Islamabad to lead the American delegation in high-stakes negotiations with Iran. The talks aim to broker a definitive deal to end the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the arrival, marking the start of one of the most significant diplomatic efforts in recent Middle Eastern history.

Arrival of the US Delegation for Islamabad Talks pic.twitter.com/Hai19EZm4I

— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) April 11, 2026

Security in the capital has been heightened as both U.S. and Iranian leadership are now on the ground for the “Islamabad Talks.”

The Iranian negotiating team is scheduled to hold a high-level meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at noon Saturday, according to the Tasnim news agency. The meeting is seen as a final consultative step before direct engagements with U.S. officials begin.

Led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, the delegation has already initiated diplomatic groundwork in the capital. Late Friday, the team held a significant session with Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, highlighting the security and strategic dimensions of the “Islamabad Talks.”

These back-to-back meetings are part of a broader diplomatic effort to secure a permanent ceasefire and end the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

Pakistan’s government has launched a high-tech media facilitation center at the Jinnah Convention Center to support local and international journalists covering the upcoming diplomatic summit between the United States and Iran.

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar confirmed that the facility provides high-speed internet, dedicated workstations, and broadcast areas for live stand-ups. To ensure seamless coverage, the government has also announced visa-on-arrival for media delegations and official representatives traveling from the U.S. and Iran.

Media Facilitation Center established at Jinnah Convention Center by @MoIB_Official for Foreign Journalists coming to cover #IslamabadTalks
All arrangements in place to facilities foreign and local journalists in the best way possible
We will be looking after them well
🇵🇰🇵🇰🇵🇰 pic.twitter.com/INkzlKu417

— Attaullah Tarar (@TararAttaullah) April 11, 2026

Shuttle services will operate between the convention center and major city hubs to assist the influx of foreign press arriving in the capital.