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Negotiations between Iranian and American delegations have commenced in Islamabad, according to multiple reports. The talks are reportedly being conducted in two formats — direct and indirect — with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif serving as mediator, as reported by CNN and cited by TASS. The development follows a two-week mutual ceasefire announced by US President Donald Trump on April 7, which both sides have acknowledged.

Coverage comparison

Reports from TASS, the Russian state news agency, provide the most detailed account of the talks' logistics and substance. One report, citing CNN, says the delegations have moved into face-to-face negotiations after initial consultations with mediators. Another TASS report, attributed to a source, indicates the talks began on Saturday and are expected to last several days, likely at the Serena Hotel in Islamabad. Security measures have been tightened across the city, with the capital's 'red zone' closed to regular traffic and public holidays declared for April 9 and 10.

All four TASS articles reference President Trump's ceasefire announcement and the characterization of Tehran's 10-point proposal as a working basis. However, only one report — citing The Washington Post — details the US administration's intention to seek the release of Americans detained in Iran during these negotiations. That same report notes there are at least six Americans in Iranian custody, a figure not mentioned in other coverage.

Key claims

  • Negotiations in two formats: Talks between Iranian and US delegations in Islamabad are taking place both directly and through intermediaries, according to CNN sources as reported by TASS.
  • Ceasefire announcement: US President Donald Trump announced a two-week mutual ceasefire with Iran on April 7, stating that nearly all contentious issues have been resolved and that Washington views Tehran's 10-point proposal as a working basis for further negotiations.
  • US detainee request: The US administration plans to request the release of Americans detained in Iran during the upcoming talks, as reported by The Washington Post citing sources. The report adds that at least six Americans are in Iranian custody, though it is unclear how aggressively this will be pursued.
  • Technical discussions: The delegations have moved to 'detailed and technical discussions on a number of issues,' according to Iran's Tasnim news agency, as reported by TASS.
  • Mediation by Pakistan: Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is mediating between the parties and invited them to negotiate in Islamabad.

Perspectives

US perspective

President Trump's announcement of a ceasefire and the characterization of Tehran's proposal as a constructive basis suggest a pragmatic approach, though the administration's stance on detainees — as relayed by White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly, who said the US 'will not negotiate through the press' — indicates a cautious public posture.

Iranian perspective

Iran has agreed to cease 'defensive attacks' provided no strikes are launched against it, and has signaled willingness to engage directly and through intermediaries. Tasnim's coverage frames the discussions as detailed and technical, suggesting a focus on substantive issues.

Pakistani mediation role

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's mediation role has been central, with Islamabad hosting the talks and implementing extensive security measures. The venue and arrangements signal Pakistan's investment in the success of these negotiations.

Russian media framing

TASS, as the sole source of these reports, frames the talks neutrally but emphasizes their procedural aspects. Its coverage also highlights the ceasefire and the 10-point proposal, reflecting the Kremlin's interest in regional stability and the potential for de-escalation.

As of now, independent verification of the talks' specific outcomes or the detainee request remains unavailable. The reports are based on anonymous sources and media citations, and no official statements from the US or Iranian governments have been issued beyond President Trump's earlier remarks. The negotiations continue, with a press conference expected following the consultations.