Trump's envoys Witkoff and Kushner to fly to Pakistan for Iran talks

April 24, 2026

The United States and Iran are engaging in indirect diplomatic talks in Pakistan, with Trump envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner traveling to Islamabad while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has also arrived for separate meetings with Pakistani officials. Despite Iran denying any direct meeting is scheduled, the White House indicates Iran wants to negotiate, particularly regarding nuclear weapons abandonment and the ongoing Strait of Hormuz crisis that has disrupted global oil shipping. The conflict, which began with US-Israeli attacks on Iran in late February, has caused oil prices to surge worldwide as both sides maintain military posturing while simultaneously pursuing diplomatic channels.

Who is affected

Iranian government and citizens
United States government and citizens
Pakistan (hosting the negotiations)
Israel (as a US ally involved in the conflict)
Global economy and oil consumers worldwide (affected by skyrocketing oil prices)
Shipping companies and nations dependent on the Strait of Hormuz for oil transit

What action is being taken

Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are traveling to Pakistan for talks
The US is maintaining a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz
Iran is restricting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is meeting with Pakistani high-level officials
JD Vance is on standby to travel if talks prove successful
The indefinite ceasefire between the US and Iran is continuing

Why it matters

This matters because the US-Iran conflict has created a major global economic crisis through disruption of oil shipping routes, causing prices to skyrocket worldwide. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil transportation, and its restriction affects the entire world economy. Additionally, the core issue of Iran's nuclear weapons program represents a significant security concern for the region and beyond. The diplomatic talks suggest both nations recognize the need to de-escalate despite their public posturing, and the outcome could determine whether the conflict expands further or moves toward resolution.

What's next

Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will attend talks in Pakistan on Saturday morning
JD Vance may travel to Pakistan if initial talks prove successful
The US and Iran will continue negotiations under the indefinitely extended ceasefire
The extent of progress to be made during the Pakistan meetings remains uncertain

Read full article from source: BBC