Sources close to the matter suggest that while nothing is set in stone, both sides are keeping the coming weekend Friday through Sunday open, leaving the door slightly ajar for diplomacy to step back in. It’s a classic case of ‘not a yes, but not a no either.’
The earlier meeting in Islamabad was no small affair. It marked the first direct contact in over a decade and carried the weight of history, being the most senior-level engagement since the Iranian Revolution. Expectations were high, but the outcome was more of a pause than a full stop.
Leading the discussions were U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Iran’s parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf two figures representing deeply different worldviews, yet sitting at the same table.
Their dialogue touched on sensitive and complex issues, including the tense situation around the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and the long shadow of international sanctions.
After the talks, Vance described the U.S. proposal as a “final and best offer,” a phrase that sounds firm but still leaves room for interpretation. Diplomacy, after all, often moves in shades of grey rather than black and white.
Behind the scenes, Pakistan appears to be playing a quiet but steady role, acting as a bridge between the two sides. Officials have reportedly received a positive signal from Iran regarding a second round, suggesting that while trust may be thin, communication lines remain open.
There is a sense that both nations are testing the waters carefully, almost cautiously rather than diving straight in. It’s a slow dance of diplomacy, where every step is measured and every word carries weight.
If the talks do resume this weekend, Islamabad could once again become the stage for a conversation the world is watching closely. Whether it leads to progress or simply more dialogue remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the story is far from over.
