ISLAMABAD: The United States is considering a second round of negotiations with Iran in Pakistan, with the White House expressing optimism about a potential agreement and praising Islamabad’s central role in mediating the process.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said discussions were ongoing about further engagement, noting that talks “would very likely be in the same place as they were last time,” referring to Islamabad.
“Those discussions are being had… and we feel good about the prospects of a deal,” she told reporters.
The remarks come after an initial round of more than 20 hours of negotiations in Islamabad, brokered through Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts following a fragile two-week ceasefire that paused weeks of conflict. While US Vice President JD Vance said no agreement was reached, both Washington and Tehran signaled that diplomacy would continue, with Iranian officials stressing that progress depends on “seriousness and good faith.”
Leavitt underscored Pakistan’s role as the sole channel for mediation, describing Islamabad as “the only mediator in this negotiation.”
“The Pakistanis have been incredible mediators throughout this process… and we really appreciate their friendship and their efforts to bring this deal to a close,” she said.
She added that while discussions remain ongoing, no formal request has been made to extend the ceasefire, emphasizing that negotiations are still in progress.
