Trump’s reputation at stake in Iran war, speculation over Vance leading peace talks in Pakistan

As the conflict between Israel and Iran enters its 27th day, tensions between the United States and Iran have intensified over claims of ongoing “peace talks”. US President Donald Trump has once again stated that discussions are under way with Iran’s top leadership to negotiate a ceasefire. Iran, however, has firmly denied any such official talks, creating confusion and putting Trump’s credibility under pressure.

As per international media reports, diplomatic efforts to halt the war have accelerated. A high-level meeting is expected to take place in Islamabad, Pakistan later this week, and US Vice President J D Vance may participate in the talks. There is also speculation that US special envoy Steve Witkoff and former presidential adviser Jared Kushner may attend the meeting.

In an interesting development, Iran has reportedly identified Vance as its preferred representative for the peace talks and has declined to engage in discussions with Witkoff or Kushner.

Reports suggest that Iran’s distrust of Witkoff and Kushner stems from past experience, military strikes on Tehran had reportedly begun shortly after talks with the two leaders, leading Iran to no longer have confidence in them. Vance, however, has consistently opposed extensive US involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts, which Iran interprets as a sign that he could play a more practical and meaningful role in bringing the war to an end.

It is likely that Iran’s delegation in the potential Islamabad meeting will be led by the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.