Security forces stood guard near the presidential palace in Islamabad on Friday as preparations intensified for high-stakes negotiations on Iran.
The White House announced that U.S. Vice President JD Vance will lead the American delegation in talks scheduled for Saturday in Pakistan. He will be joined by special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner. The participation of Iranian officials remains uncertain following Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon earlier this week that killed more than 300 people.
Despite deep divisions, President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the possibility of reaching a peace agreement with Tehran.
Key Developments
- Uncertainty over Iran’s participation: The strikes in Lebanon have cast doubt on whether Iranian representatives will attend.
- U.S. delegation confirmed: JD Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner will represent Washington in Islamabad.
- Trump’s stance: The president said he is “very optimistic” about a potential peace deal.
Strait of Hormuz Tensions
Since the ceasefire between Iran and the United States, few vessels have dared to cross the Strait of Hormuz. On Thursday, a Gabonese-flagged tanker became the first non-Iranian ship to do so. Tehran insists mines are planted in the area and has floated the idea of a permanent toll system — a proposal that has intrigued Trump but divided Gulf states. The European Union, led by France, has rejected the plan outright.
Fresh U.S.-Iran negotiations are expected Friday in Pakistan, focusing on a framework for peace.
Energy Sector Impact
French energy giant TotalEnergies announced the shutdown of its Satorp refinery in Saudi Arabia after strikes damaged part of the facility. The refinery, jointly owned with Aramco, suspended operations “as a precautionary measure.” No casualties were reported.
Regional Fallout
Israeli strikes on Beirut and other parts of Lebanon on Wednesday marked one of the deadliest days of the conflict, leaving more than 300 dead and 1,000 injured. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has since ordered his cabinet to begin direct negotiations with Lebanon.
