ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN April 12, 2026 — High-stakes direct negotiations between the United States and Iran in Pakistan have entered an intense phase, with talks continuing for “15 hours and counting,” a senior White House official confirmed late Saturday.
The landmark face-to-face discussions, hosted in Islamabad, mark the first high-level in-person engagement between Washington and Tehran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. U.S. Vice President JD Vance is leading the American delegation, joined by senior officials including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Iran is represented by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and senior diplomats.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has played a key mediating role, with both delegations meeting him separately before entering trilateral talks aimed at transforming a fragile two-week ceasefire into a lasting peace agreement. The ceasefire, announced after six weeks of conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran, has already faced multiple tests, including continued strikes in southern Lebanon.
According to the White House press pool, the marathon session at Islamabad’s Serena Hotel shows no signs of immediate conclusion or breakdown. “15 hours and counting,” the official stated, underscoring the gravity and complexity of the issues on the table.
Reports indicate both sides entered the talks with maximalist positions. Iran has presented a 10-point proposal that includes demands for full U.S. military withdrawal from the region and formal recognition of its influence over the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. counter-offer reportedly includes a 15-point framework calling for the dismantling of Iran’s nuclear program and other security guarantees. Pakistan is said to have proposed ideas such as joint maritime patrols in the Strait of Hormuz to bridge gaps.
No breakthrough has been announced, and Iranian state media described the talks as ongoing into early Sunday morning local time with a new round beginning after overnight discussions. Analysts note the extended duration reflects deep mistrust but also a shared interest in preventing further escalation that could roil global energy markets and regional stability.
The development comes amid heightened global attention, with oil prices remaining elevated due to uncertainty over the Strait of Hormuz — a critical chokepoint for nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.
Life News Agency will continue monitoring the talks in Islamabad for any updates on progress or potential agreements. As of the latest reports, both delegations remain engaged at the negotiating table.
About The Author
