Negotiations between the United States and Iran for a ceasefire are taking place in Islamabad, with both sides sending conflicting signals regarding participation. The situation intensified after the US seized an Iranian cargo ship, which led Iran to warn of potential retaliation. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei criticized the US for lacking seriousness in pursuing diplomacy, yet unnamed Iranian officials indicated that Tehran is 'positively reviewing' its attendance at the talks. The US delegation is led by Vice President JD Vance, who previously expressed the need for Iran to commit to not developing nuclear weapons. Other key US figures include Jared Kushner, a senior adviser, and Steve Witkoff, a special envoy involved in shaping the US negotiating stance. On the Iranian side, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the parliament speaker, is leading the negotiations, supported by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. As the ceasefire deadline approaches, the role of Pakistan as a mediator becomes crucial in facilitating dialogue and potentially easing tensions.