The US approach would depend on Iran’s willingness to engage constructively, he says
WASHINGTON — US Vice President J D Vance on Friday set off for Pakistan to lead his country’s delegation for high-stakes talks with Iran, as efforts continue to stabilise tensions following a two-week ceasefire.
Vance said Washington is ready to “extend the open hand” if Tehran negotiates in good faith, while warning against attempts to “play” the United States.
“We’re looking forward to negotiation. I think it’s going to be positive,” Vance told reporters at Joint Base Andrews before boarding Air Force Two for Islamabad, IANS reports.
He reiterated that the US approach would depend on Iran’s willingness to engage constructively, aligning his remarks with guidance from President Donald Trump.
The Vice President emphasised that the administration is entering the talks with a defined framework.
“So we’re going to try to have a positive negotiation. The President gave us some pretty clear guidelines, and we’re going to see,” he said.
Officials have not yet released a detailed schedule for the Pakistan visit, leaving key elements of the trip unclear.
The negotiations come after a pause in the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which escalated earlier this year. Pakistan has positioned itself as a key mediator in the peace process.
For a smooth and successful peace talks, Pakistan has taken all necessary steps as authorities in Islamabad have put in place extensive security arrangements. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reviewed preparations and said hosting the talks was “an honour” for the country.
More than 10,000 security personnel have been deployed across Islamabad and nearby Rawalpindi. The high-security Red Zone has been sealed, with access restricted to authorised individuals only.
Pakistan has also eased the visa rules. Islamabad announced visa-free entry for delegates and journalists attending what is being called the Islamabad Talks 2026.
Officials clarified that the facility applies only to participants from the US and Iran and is limited to the duration of the talks.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had earlier played a role in brokering the temporary ceasefire, paving the way for these negotiations. — Agencies
