Iranian delegation arrives in Islamabad for talks with US

A high-level Iranian diplomatic delegation, led by Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani, arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Tuesday, January 15, 2025, to engage in indirect talks with United States officials. The meeting, facilitated by Pakistan, aims to de-escalate regional tensions and discuss the implementation of the stalled 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The talks represent a significant diplomatic opening following a prolonged period of heightened hostility and proxy conflicts in the Middle East. The Iranian delegation is expected to communicate its positions to American counterparts through Pakistani intermediaries, a format reminiscent of past negotiations. The agenda is reported to focus on mutual concerns, including the potential revival of the nuclear accord, the lifting of US sanctions on Iran, and Tehran's regional activities, particularly its support for groups in Yemen and Lebanon. This diplomatic initiative comes amid a fragile regional ceasefire and international pressure on both Washington and Tehran to prevent a broader conflict. Analysts suggest that while a breakthrough is uncertain, the mere fact of direct, albeit indirect, communication is a positive step. The outcome of these Islamabad talks could set the tone for future engagements and potentially pave the way for more direct negotiations in a neutral third country, with European powers also keenly observing the proceedings.