Fars is reporting that
- Israel will announce it’s commitment to a ceasefire at 4 AM Beirut time (it is 10:15 PM now in Beirut).
The announcement gives a path to peace talks between the US and Iran this weekend…
WHat to expect?
The U.S. position, led by JD Vance, is centered on security and stability. The primary goal is to eliminate any pathway for Iran to develop a nuclear weapon, which means strict limits—or potentially a halt—to uranium enrichment, backed by strong verification and inspection measures. The U.S. is also pushing for the reopening and protection of the Strait of Hormuz to ensure steady global oil flows, along with broader de-escalation across the region, including curbs on Iran-backed proxy activity. At its core, the U.S. is seeking a framework that reduces military threats, stabilizes energy markets, and provides long-term security assurances.
Iran’s position, represented by Abbas Araghchi, is focused on economic relief and sovereignty. The top priority is the lifting of sanctions—particularly those restricting oil exports and access to the global financial system. Iran also insists on maintaining its right to a civilian nuclear program, including uranium enrichment, while demanding an end to military pressure from the U.S. and its allies. Additionally, Iran is seeking recognition of its regional role and influence, along with firm guarantees against regime-change efforts. Overall, Iran is looking for a deal that restores economic stability while preserving its strategic autonomy.
U.S. delegation
- JD Vance – leading the talks
- Steve Witkoff – key negotiator
- Jared Kushner – part of the diplomatic team
Vance is the central figure and seen as the main face of the U.S. side in these negotiations. It is probably good Kushner and Witkoff are playing behind Vance this time.
Iran delegation
- Abbas Araghchi – leading diplomat
- Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf – senior political figure
It’s still unclear if military figures (IRGC) will attend.
Pakistan (host & mediator)
- Led by the government of Shehbaz Sharif
- Pakistani officials act as go-betweens (proximity talks) rather than having both sides face each other directly
How the talks are structured
- Held in Islamabad
- “Proximity talks” → U.S. and Iran sit in separate rooms
- Pakistan shuttles messages between both sides
Bottom line
- U.S.: Vance-led team (with Witkoff, Kushner)
- Iran: Araghchi + Ghalibaf
- Pakistan: mediator, not a direct negotiating party
This is a high-level but still cautious setup, reflecting how fragile trust is—especially with both sides not even sitting in the same room.
This article was written by Greg Michalowski at investinglive.com.