After the fragile ceasefire put in place this week, discussions on a peace plan are set to begin on Saturday, April 11 in Pakistan. This summit meeting is scheduled to take place in the capital, Islamabad, located in the northern part of Pakistan near the Indian border. A modern city of one million inhabitants, with its hotels, universities, and the backdrop of the Himalayas.
Before this diplomatic Everest, the city has begun to transform. Military personnel have been patrolling the streets since Thursday, the embassy district has been cordoned off, and guests at a large capital hotel have been asked to leave. The Serena Hotel is expected to host the talks, according to Pakistani media.
Pakistan, a major neighbor of Iran and possessing nuclear weapons, has emerged as a mediator in this issue, able to speak to all parties: Americans, Chinese, and Iranians, representing their interests in Washington for years. Directly involved in the conflict, Pakistan will likely play more than just a hosting role in these talks. A key player in the negotiations, like Egypt or Turkey. One man in particular will have a significant role: Chief of the Pakistani army, Asim Munir, who has worked behind the scenes to bring both sides to the table.
>> DIRECT. War in the Middle East: American and Iranian delegations expected in Pakistan to begin negotiations
Negotiators Selected
On the Iranian side, the President of the Assembly, Mohammad Ghalibaf, and the Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghtchi, have been designated to lead the discussions. Their arrival in Pakistan is shrouded in secrecy for security reasons. Different reasons are given to maintain doubt about the presence of American Vice President, J. D. Vance. He is supposed to lead the American team, alongside Donald Trump’s usual lieutenants: his son-in-law Jared Kushner and his emissary Steve Witkoff, who has business ties with the Pakistani government. J. D. Vance, a key figure, was likely the most opposed to military intervention within the White House and is considered less aligned with Israel than his partners by the Iranians. He has a big role to play, for himself and his country.
The negotiations are expected to be tense. Trust is low and positions are far apart on key issues, starting with the crucial question of the Iranian nuclear program. A war of communication has already begun to determine the basis of the discussions. Each side comes with a different document, and the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz as well as the continuation of the war in Lebanon could derail the negotiations at any moment.
