US and Iran begin peace talks

Senior negotiators from Washington and Tehran have convened in Pakistan for their most significant direct engagement since 1979.

The American delegation, which includes Jared Kushner and special envoy Steve Witkoff, is seeking concessions on regional security and the release of detainees.

Iranian representatives, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, are prioritizing the lifting of economic sanctions and an immediate cessation of Israeli strikes in Lebanon.

Despite the start of formal discussions, both sides maintain a posture of deep mutual mistrust as regional violence continues to threaten the diplomatic process.