Pakistan, US discuss preparations for expected second round of Iran talks

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met US Ambassador Natalie Baker in Islamabad on Monday, where both sides discussed bilateral relations, regional developments, and security arrangements ahead of the second round of expected US-Iran talks in the Pakistani capital.

According to an official statement, the meeting at the US Embassy in the Diplomatic Enclave focused on strengthening Pakistan-US ties and reviewing the evolving regional situation. Preparations for the second round of negotiations expected in Islamabad were also discussed.

The US envoy appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to support de-escalation and regional stability, the statement said.

Naqvi briefed the ambassador on comprehensive security arrangements for the upcoming diplomatic engagements, saying special measures had been put in place to ensure the safety of all visiting delegations. He also expressed hope for a successful outcome of the talks.

Meanwhile, security has been significantly tightened in Islamabad and adjoining Rawalpindi ahead of the anticipated US–Iran talks expected later this week, amid heightened tensions between the two sides.

The developments come as maritime and geopolitical frictions escalate in the region, including heightened US naval activity near the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian warnings of retaliation following reported incidents involving Iranian vessels.

US President Donald Trump has said American naval forces targeted an Iranian ship attempting to evade a blockade, claiming it was struck after ignoring warnings and is now under US control.

Tehran has signaled it would respond, with Iranian media reporting that drones were dispatched towards US naval assets following the incident.

Earlier, Iranian sources cited by state-affiliated media described the atmosphere ahead of the talks as “not very positive,” adding that lifting US restrictions on Iranian maritime routes remains a key demand before negotiations can proceed.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route, has remained a flashpoint in recent weeks amid the wider regional standoff.