Clever Debates’ goal is to give a clear and timely analysis of what’s going on in the world. Everyone is paying attention to the talks between the US and Iran to see what happens with Pakistan. I have been following the talks in Islamabad closely, and like many others, I hoped for a breakthrough that would lead to a ceasefire that would last. Unfortunately, the peace talks didn’t end with a final agreement, so the current ceasefire is still up in the air.
What Happened at the US-Iran Talks in Islamabad
I know these talks gave people a lot of hope because I read a lot about US-Iran news. Officials from both the US and Iran talked a lot in Islamabad’s diplomatic enclave, which is close to the busy Blue Area and the famous Faisal Mosque. Pakistan hosted and mediated the talks, giving both sides a neutral place to talk in the hopes that they could find new ways to work together.
They didn’t reach a final deal even after days of talks. Both sides were unhappy that some problems had not been fixed yet. Some sources said that the main points of contention were the extent of future military operations and the availability of humanitarian assistance. I saw that even though there were times when people were hopeful, both sides stuck to their guns in the end. I am disappointed by this result, but I can’t say I’m surprised, given the complicated history between the two countries.
Why the Ceasefire Is at Risk Right Now
The truth is that the ceasefire is still shaky because the US and Iran haven’t reached an agreement yet. Without a signed agreement, there is no official promise that either side will keep the current ceasefire. I have spoken with coworkers in the central districts of Islamabad and Tehran, and they are very worried that even a small event could start the conflict again.
Both sides have said in public that they are willing to keep talking, but they don’t trust each other very much because there isn’t a formal peace deal. I remember times like this before, when good news about Iran and the US quickly went away when talks fell through. This time, the stakes seem even higher because of the humanitarian situation in places like Baghdad’s Karrada district and the border areas between Iran and Iraq.