The Iranian delegation, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, has already set a high bar for progress. Tehran is demanding an immediate cessation of Israeli strikes in Lebanon and the unfreezing of blocked assets as prerequisites for formal negotiations.

As the two sides prepare to meet at the heavily fortified Jinnah Convention Centre, the atmosphere remains volatile. Despite the diplomatic push, cross-border fire continues between Israel and Hezbollah, with Lebanese state media reporting three killed in Israeli strikes this morning.

Iran-US peace talks: Key developments to watch

• The ‘Vance Test’: The VP warned that Washington “won’t be receptive” if Iran attempts to stall or play for time.
• Lebanon escalation: Hezbollah’s rocket fire into northern Israel this morning threatens to derail the “pre-condition” ceasefire Iran is demanding.
• Islamabad lockdown: A total security “red zone” has been established, with the capital’s bustling streets deserted ahead of the noon meetings.
• Pakistan, the mediator: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is acting as the primary interlocutor, holding a series of “bridge-building” sessions with both teams today.

Stay with The Indian Express Global Desk for real-time updates, geolocated footage of the crash sites, and live reactions from the Pentagon and Tehran.