Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, that high-level delegations from the United States and Iran will arrive in Islamabad this Friday for negotiations. This diplomatic breakthrough follows the mediation of a critical two-week ceasefire, which the Prime Minister described as a “shining moment” in Pakistan’s history. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian confirmed Tehran’s participation during a substantive call with the Premier today, signaling a willingness to transition the temporary pause in hostilities into a lasting peace agreement.
I had a warm and substantive conversation with President Masoud Pezeshkian of Iran, this afternoon.
I conveyed my deep appreciation for the wisdom and sagacity of the Iranian leadership in accepting Pakistan’s offer to host peace talks in Islamabad later this week to work…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) April 8, 2026
The summit comes after President Donald Trump agreed to suspend military strikes on Iran for fourteen days, contingent on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. In turn, Iran’s National Security Council committed to halting defensive operations to allow for safe maritime passage.
#BREAKING US, Iranian delegations to arrive in Islamabad Friday for talks, Pakistan Premier Sharif says pic.twitter.com/ifTtLaiIxK
— Anadolu English (@anadoluagency) April 8, 2026
PM Shehbaz extended deep gratitude to partner nations, including Saudi Arabia, China, and Turkiye, for their role in facilitating the “Islamabad Channel.” President Asif Ali Zardari also welcomed the ceasefire as a vital step toward regional stability, though he warned all parties to remain vigilant against potential spoilers. As the world watches, these talks represent a monumental effort to stabilize global energy markets and prevent the further escalation of a devastating regional war.
