Second Round of US-Iran Talks Confirmed for Tomorrow in Islamabad

After Pakistani Mediators Return from Tehran with “Major Progress”

ISLAMABAD — In a dramatic late-night development, Pakistani officials confirmed that a second round of direct US-Iran peace talks will be held in Islamabad tomorrow, April 18, after Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir’s delegation returned from Tehran with what sources describe as a “major breakthrough” in narrowing the remaining gaps.

The announcement came just hours after the Pakistani team wrapped up two days of intensive closed-door meetings with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and other senior officials in the Iranian capital.

A senior Pakistani Foreign Ministry official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told reporters at the airport upon the delegation’s return: “Both sides have now agreed in principle to resume face-to-face negotiations in Islamabad. The date is set for tomorrow.”

What Changed Overnight

The first round, held at the Serena Hotel on April 11-12, lasted more than 21 hours but ended without a final deal. Since then, Pakistan has been the sole active mediator shuttling messages between Washington and Tehran.

US officials had earlier indicated that a second round was likely “within days,” while President Trump publicly stated the war was “very close to being over.” Iranian sources had been more cautious — until today.

The breakthrough reportedly centres on a possible temporary extension of the current two-week ceasefire and a framework for sanctions relief tied to verifiable steps on Iran’s nuclear programme and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Clock Is Still Ticking

The current ceasefire is due to expire on April 22. With the US naval blockade still in force and Iranian ports under pressure, tomorrow’s talks are being described by diplomats as “make-or-break” for preventing a return to open conflict.

Pakistan’s role has drawn praise from both sides. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Islamabad remains “fully committed to facilitating a lasting agreement that serves regional stability.”

Regional and Global Reaction

• Washington: The White House has not yet issued an official statement but sources close to Vice President JD Vance say the US team is already preparing to travel.
• Tehran: Iranian state media described the Pakistani mediation as “constructive” but stressed that any deal must include the complete lifting of “unjust sanctions.”
• Markets: Oil prices eased slightly in early Asian trading on hopes of de-escalation.

What does this mean for Pakistan?

Tomorrow’s talks could cement Islamabad’s position as a credible global mediator — or expose the limits of shuttle diplomacy if the two sides remain deadlocked.

The next 48 hours will decide whether the fragile ceasefire holds or the region slides back into crisis.

What do you think?

Is tomorrow’s second round in Islamabad the beginning of real peace — or just another round of high-stakes poker? Share your views in the comments.