Peace negotiations between the United States and Iran could soon shift to Islamabad, with Donald Trump indicating that the next round of talks may take place “over the next two days” following a stalemate in the first phase of discussions.
According to reports cited by the The New York Post and Khaleej Times, Washington has already imposed a blockade on Iranian ports after the initial round of negotiations failed to produce a breakthrough.
Trump Initially Suggested Europe Before Naming Islamabad
In an initial telephonic interview, Trump said negotiations were continuing but progressing slowly.
“They’re happening, but, you know, a little bit slow,” he said, suggesting that a second round of direct talks aimed at ending the ongoing seven-week conflict could be held in Europe.
However, shortly afterward, Trump issued a revised update indicating that Islamabad had become the more likely venue.
“You should stay there, really, because something could be happening over the next two days, and we’re more inclined to go there,” Trump said, referring to Islamabad.
Trump Praises Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir
Trump explained that the shift in venue was linked to his positive view of Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Field Marshal.
“It’s more likely, you know why? Because the field marshal is doing a great job,” Trump said.
He added that he had developed a rapport with Munir last year during a period of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, which later de-escalated following a brief four-day conflict reportedly mediated by the United States.
“He’s fantastic, and therefore it’s more likely that we go back there,” Trump said. “Why should we go to some country that has nothing to do with it?”
Trump further praised Munir, claiming, “I just think he’s a great guy. That guy. The field marshal. You know he ended the war with India, saved 30 million people.”
Trump Says He Will Not Personally Attend Talks
Despite suggesting Islamabad as the possible venue, Trump clarified that he would not personally attend the second round of negotiations. He also did not identify who would represent the United States during the discussions.
At the same time, he expressed dissatisfaction with reports suggesting that Washington had demanded Iran suspend uranium enrichment for at least 20 years after unsuccessful talks over the weekend.
“I’ve been saying they can’t have nuclear weapons,” Trump said. “So I don’t like the 20 years.”
When asked whether such a long moratorium could help secure a deal, he added:
“I don’t want them [Iran] to feel like they have a win.”
Iran Shows ‘Flexibility’ But Rejects End To Enrichment
On the diplomatic front, retired Pakistani Lieutenant General Muhammad Saeed, who is reportedly involved in facilitating the talks, said Iran had shown some flexibility on the contentious issue of uranium enrichment.
He noted that Tehran would need to frame any compromise in a politically acceptable way domestically.
“Iran has to be able to take something back to its people that doesn’t look like a surrender,” Saeed said, describing the need for any deal to be presented as being made “in the golden trust of the people.”
However, Mohammad Marandi, who accompanied the Iranian delegation in Islamabad, maintained a firm stance, stating that economic pressure would not force policy changes.
“A blockade won’t change Iran’s position,” Marandi said, adding that “ending enrichment will not be accepted.”
Tensions Continue As Diplomatic Efforts Intensify
The proposed shift to Islamabad highlights the urgency surrounding diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran. With economic sanctions and blockades increasing pressure, both sides appear to be exploring new venues and frameworks to revive stalled negotiations.
Whether the upcoming round leads to a breakthrough remains uncertain, but the involvement of regional mediators and shifting diplomatic strategies suggests that talks are entering a critical phase.