Islamabad, Pakistan – Web Desk: High-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran have begun in Islamabad, with a wide range of complex and sensitive issues expected to dominate discussions.
The talks, hosted by Pakistan, aim to build on a fragile ceasefire and explore pathways toward a broader and more durable agreement. Diplomatic sources say the negotiations are structured around two competing frameworks—Tehran’s 10-point proposal and Washington’s 15-point plan—highlighting significant gaps despite both sides agreeing to engage.
At the center of the discussions is Iran’s nuclear programme. The United States, under President Donald Trump, is seeking firm guarantees that Iran will not develop nuclear weapons, along with strict limits on uranium enrichment and enhanced monitoring by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Iran, however, insists on its right to pursue peaceful nuclear activities, including uranium enrichment, framing it as a matter of national sovereignty.
Economic sanctions remain another major point of contention. Tehran is demanding the immediate and complete lifting of US and international sanctions, as well as the release of its frozen financial assets held abroad. In contrast, Washington supports a phased easing of sanctions tied to verifiable compliance with nuclear and security commitments.
The strategically vital Strait of Hormuz is also a key issue. Iran is seeking formal recognition of its regulatory role over the waterway, citing its geographic and economic importance. The United States, meanwhile, insists on ensuring the strait remains open and secure for global energy supplies without restrictions.
Regional influence is another sensitive topic. Washington is pressing Iran to end support for allied armed groups across the Middle East, while Tehran is calling for a halt to military actions against those groups and broader de-escalation in regional conflicts.
Iran has also demanded the withdrawal of US forces from the region and formal non-aggression guarantees—conditions Washington has not accepted, citing its security commitments to regional allies.
The issue of Iran’s ballistic missile programme is expected to further complicate negotiations. The US is seeking limitations on missile development, while Iran views such demands as an infringement on its right to self-defense.
With the two-week ceasefire deadline approaching, officials say any progress is likely to be gradual, starting with confidence-building measures. While no immediate breakthrough is expected, continued dialogue could lead to an extension of the ceasefire and reduce the risk of renewed escalation.
