US and Iran Hold Historic Direct Peace Talks in Pakistan Hosted by Prime Minister Sharif

The United States and Iran held direct peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, marking the highest-level face-to-face meeting since 1979.

“The US Central Command says two US Navy guided-missile destroyers have transited the Strait of Hormuz today”

BBC

The US delegation was led by Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner.

BBC

The Iranian delegation was composed of more than 70 members, led by parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

The talks came after a two-week ceasefire agreed on April 7.

The first round lasted about two hours and was followed by more technical talks.

Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, was also present.

The Strait of Hormuz emerged as a central issue in the talks.

Iran had effectively blocked the strait since the war began.

CBS News

President Trump announced the US had started clearing out the strait.

CENTCOM confirmed that two guided-missile destroyers had transited the waterway.

Iranian state television denied the reports and threatened to attack any US warship crossing the strait.

Iran demanded the unfreezing of its assets and a cessation of hostilities in Lebanon.

Mutual suspicion remained high despite the historic talks.

“• High-stakes talks: Sources say a US delegation led by Vice President JD Vance met directly with Iranian officials in Pakistan on Saturday, marking a significant moment for two countries that have typically held high-level talks through intermediaries”

CNN

Ghalibaf said Iran's experience had always been met with failure and broken promises.

Vance warned the team would not be receptive if Iran tried to play them.

The ceasefire was already under strain from Israel's continued strikes in Lebanon.

Israeli military said it had struck more than 200 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon within 24 hours.

Direct talks between Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors were due to be held in Washington.

Global reactions to the talks were mixed.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister expressed hope for constructive engagement.

CNN Arabic

France's President Macron urged Iran to seize the opportunity for de-escalation.

Three Iranian nationals with ties to Iran's government were arrested by US federal agents.

The talks were closely watched by other key players including China.