US-Iran talks begin in Islamabad with JD Vance leading delegation as 14-day ceasefire hangs in balance

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The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is another key issue. The route is vital for global oil supplies, but shipping remains limited despite the ceasefire.3 min readApr 11, 2026 05:53 AM IST First published on: Apr 11, 2026 at 05:52 AM IST ShareWhatsapptwitterFacebookSecurity officers search a car at the main entrance of Pakistan's foreign ministry to ensure security ahead of the United States and Iran possible negotiations in Pakistani capital after two-week ceasefire, in Islamabad, Pakistan. (Photo: AP)The outcome of talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad could affect millions of lives across the Middle East and shape the global economy, according to CNN.The Pakistani capital has been placed under tight security, with a two-day public holiday declared ahead of the arrival of both delegations. The meeting follows a fragile two-week ceasefire that has, for now, paused direct confrontation.However, continued Israeli strikes in Lebanon and disagreements over whether the ceasefire applies there could complicate the discussions.Who will be at the talks?The US delegation will be led by Vice President JD Vance, alongside special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.“We’re looking forward to the negotiation. I think it’s going to be positive,” Vance said before departing, CNN reported.Story continues below this adIran has not officially confirmed its team, but local media suggest parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf may lead the delegation.Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the talks as a “make-or-break moment” and said the government would make every effort to support dialogue.What will they talk about?A key issue will be Iran’s nuclear programme. US President Donald Trump said, “No nuclear weapon. That’s 99% of it,” according to CNN.There is confusion over proposals from both sides. Trump referred to a “10-point proposal from Iran” as a “workable basis”, but Iranian demands reported in state media include lifting all sanctions and recognition of its control over the Strait of Hormuz conditions Washington is unlikely to accept.Story continues below this adThe US is also said to have its own multi-point plan, including limits on Iran’s nuclear and defence capabilities.What is happening in Lebanon?Disagreement over Lebanon remains a major sticking point. Iran insists the ceasefire includes its ally Hezbollah, while the US and Israel say it does not. Israeli strikes this week killed hundreds, drawing international criticism.Ghalibaf said talks could not proceed without a ceasefire in Lebanon, warning that “time is running out,” CNN reported.Vance acknowledged there had been a “legitimate misunderstanding” about Lebanon’s inclusion and suggested Israel may need to show restraint.Story continues below this adWhat about the Strait of Hormuz?The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is another key issue. The route is vital for global oil supplies, but shipping remains limited despite the ceasefire.Iran has warned that violations of the truce would bring a “strong response”, while Trump has cautioned against any attempt to charge tolls on passing vessels.Most ReadWill the talks achieve anything?US officials say the talks may include both direct and indirect discussions, CNN reported.Trump said he was “very optimistic” about a deal, adding that Iran appeared “more reasonable” in private. However, Iranian public statements suggest a harder position.Story continues below this adOfficials expect the meeting to be the first in a series of negotiations rather than a final breakthrough.AdvertisementLoading Recommendations...Apr 11: Latest NewsAsian Wrestling Championships: Meenakshi Goyat bags silver; Sujeet, Abhimanyou, Sandeep enter gold medal boutsThe frog that breaks its own bones to grow clawsT Natarajan opens up on pain behind DC comeback ahead of IPL 2026 clash against CSK: ‘Injury always in my mind’Music This Week: Shreya Ghoshal’s The All Hearts Tour – LiveVijay’s Jana Nayagan leaked online: Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Suriya condemn act, say ‘Piracy is an attack on the art and artiste itself’