Iranian delegation expected in Islamabad despite Tehran’s public denial

WEB DESK: Sources close to Pakistani media have indicated that an Iranian delegation is expected to arrive in the capital on Tuesday for a potential second round of US-brokered peace talks, even as Iranian state media continues to deny any such plans.

The development comes amid heightened diplomatic activity as Pakistan seeks to extend a fragile two-week ceasefire in the Middle East that is due to expire shortly.

Pakistani officials have been quietly preparing security and logistical arrangements in Islamabad, according to Xinhua.

Mixed signals from Tehran

Iranian officials and state-linked outlets, including IRNA and Tasnim, have repeatedly stated there is currently “no decision” to send a negotiating team to Pakistan.

They have cited ongoing concerns over a US naval presence in the region, described by Tehran as a violation of the ceasefire understanding, along with what they call Washington’s excessive demands and shifting positions.

Despite these public denials, reports from Pakistani and international outlets suggest backchannel efforts continue, with Islamabad acting as a key mediator.

A Pakistani delegation, including senior military figures, recently visited Tehran to convey messages and explore the possibility of further dialogue.

Pakistan’s mediation role

Pakistan has positioned itself as a neutral facilitator in the sensitive negotiations, hosting the first round of talks earlier this month which involved high-level Iranian and US delegations but ended without a full agreement.

Foreign Office sources have not issued an official confirmation of Tuesday’s arrival, maintaining that no final dates have been set for the next round.

However, local media reports point to renewed optimism for technical-level discussions that could help stabilise the ceasefire and address key flashpoints, including maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.

Analysts note that the coming days will be critical, with the ceasefire deadline looming. Any Iranian delegation would likely include familiar faces from the previous round, such as senior diplomats and parliamentarians, though details remain unconfirmed.

The situation remains fluid, and further updates are expected as diplomatic channels remain active between Islamabad, Tehran, and Washington.