Diplomatic Sources Say US Vice President Vance May Lead Iran Peace Talks in Islamabad
The Guardian, citing diplomatic sources, reported that US Vice President JD Vance may lead peace negotiations between the United States and Iran if talks progress.
The White House confirmed a phone call on Sunday between President Donald Trump and Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir, during which they discussed Middle East conflicts. Diplomatic sources indicated the US and Iran could meet in Islamabad early this week to negotiate an end to the war that began nearly a month ago, though no formal agreement has been reached.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced his country is ready to facilitate "meaningful and conclusive" negotiations. Pakistani sources told the Guardian that Vance is viewed as an acceptable figure by Iran due to his independent stance, as Tehran rejects negotiating with Steve Witkoff or Jared Kushner, who led prior nuclear talks.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, speaker of Iran's parliament, is the most likely candidate to lead Iran's side, though he has dismissed reports of the negotiations as "fake news."
Islamabad has not been confirmed as the venue, with alternatives including Qatar, Turkey and Egypt under consideration, but sources said Iran prefers Pakistan's capital. The prospect of talks drove oil prices below $100 per barrel. Trump has threatened to target Iran's power plants and energy infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked.
A White House spokesperson said: "These are sensitive diplomatic discussions, and the United States will not negotiate through the media."
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