The United States and Iran have begun long-awaited direct talks in Islamabad, marking a significant diplomatic shift after years of indirect communication. According to sources involved in the process, representatives from both nations are now sitting at the same table, with Pakistani officials also present. Until now, discussions had been conducted indirectly through Pakistani mediators, with each side in separate rooms.

The talks are being held at the Prime Minister’s Office in Islamabad, which has drawn global attention since Saturday morning. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met separately with Iran’s high-level delegation, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and later with the U.S. team led by Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Details of Sharif’s separate meetings with the two delegations have not yet been disclosed.

Despite the start of direct dialogue, deep mistrust remains between the two sides. Iran seeks the lifting of U.S. sanctions and security guarantees, while the United States wants limits on Iran’s regional military influence and maritime security assurances.