As negotiations between the United States and Iran are set to begin in Pakistan on the 11th, both sides have arrived and are exchanging cautionary remarks. The U.S. expressed willingness to extend a hand for dialogue while warning "don't underestimate us," while Iran is grappling with internal disputes over its delegation.
On Saturday local time, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance told reporters before departing for Pakistan that "if Iran is willing to negotiate in good faith, we're happy to extend a hand," but added that "if they try to fool us, they will find that the negotiating team is not so friendly."
Vance also said he "expects the talks to go positively," adding that "President Trump has provided very clear guidelines for talks aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and maintaining a ceasefire with Iran."
Iran is facing disputes over its delegation's composition and authority ahead of the negotiations. According to Iran International, IRGC Commander-in-Chief Ahmad Vahidi is attempting to limit the negotiating authority of Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Commander Vahidi sought to include Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, in the negotiating team, but existing delegation members opposed, citing his lack of strategic negotiation experience. The Iranian delegation, led by Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Araghchi, arrived in Islamabad, the negotiation venue, late the previous evening.
Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi also stated that Iran's 10-point plan would serve as the basis for talks with the United States, adding that "we will not tolerate talks based on false information for deceptive purposes." He also emphasized that Iran would not accept a ceasefire that gives the enemy an opportunity to rearm and resume attacks.
Meanwhile, Commander Vahidi and the IRGC Aerospace Force commander insisted that the delegation must not engage in any negotiations regarding Iran's missile program.
