Tehran and Washington: Ceasefire Negotiations in Islamabad

Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, returned to Islamabad for ceasefire talks between Iran and the U.S. after an initial departure. Confusion surrounded the second round of discussions as Pakistan's leaders attempted to mediate. The U.S. however, halted the mission due to lack of progress.

In a bid to reignite ceasefire negotiations between Tehran and Washington, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made an unexpected return to Islamabad on Sunday. The diplomatic shuffle comes after Araghchi initially left Islamabad, creating uncertainty around the planned second round of talks.

Pakistan's political and military leaders are actively trying to facilitate the discussions, previously orchestrated by Oman. The Omani mediations were crucial due to their strategic location near the Strait of Hormuz.

Meanwhile, U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were set to join the talks, but the mission was abruptly called off by President Donald Trump citing stalled progress with Iran. In a statement, Trump hinted that Iran holds the key to rescheduling talks, saying, "They can call us anytime they want."