Vice President JD Vance departed for Islamabad, Pakistan, on Friday to lead a high-level U.S. delegation in direct negotiations with Iranian officials. The talks aim to solidify a permanent peace agreement and resolve the maritime crisis in the Strait of Hormuz following weeks of regional hostilities.

 Speaking to reporters before his departure, Vance expressed cautious optimism while delivering a firm warning to Tehran. "We’re looking forward to the negotiation. I think it’s going to be positive," Vance stated. He echoed President Donald Trump’s stance, noting that while the U.S. is willing to "extend the open hand" if Iran negotiates in good faith, the team would not be "receptive" to any attempts to manipulate the process. ‘Our Fingers Remain on the Trigger’: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian Warns Israel Against Continued Strikes on Lebanon Despite Ceasefire Deal.
The diplomatic mission comes during a fragile two-week ceasefire brokered by Pakistan. Accompanying Vance are Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, reflecting the administration’s focus on a "workable basis" for peace. Key U.S. demands include the immediate, unrestricted reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and new constraints on Iran’s nuclear program.

The negotiations face significant hurdles. Tehran has proposed a 10-point plan seeking total sanctions relief and a U.S. withdrawal from the region—demands Washington has previously signaled it will reject. Furthermore, tensions remain high as Iran insists the ceasefire should include an end to Israeli operations in Lebanon, a condition the U.S. and Israel have explicitly excluded. Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Sparks Diplomatic Row With Anti-Israel Remarks Ahead of Crucial US-Iran Peace Talks in Islamabad.

'It’s Going to Be Positive'

Vance emphasized that the delegation is operating under "pretty clear guidelines" from the President to ensure any lasting deal prioritizes American security interests.

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