Key Conditions: A Ceasefire in Lebanon and the Release of Assets  ( Assets ) 

Tehran/Islamabad: Uncertainty persists regarding potential talks between Iran and the United States aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Iran has made it clear that the fulfillment of certain key conditions is a prerequisite for the commencement of any dialogue. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, stated on social media that two crucial conditions—previously agreed upon by both sides—have yet to be met. He asserted that a ceasefire in Lebanon and the unfreezing of Iran’s blocked assets    ( Assets )   are essential preconditions for the talks to begin.

‘Talks Will Begin Only After Conditions Are Met’
Ghalibaf stated, “The two key conditions—a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of Iran’s blocked assets—have not yet been fulfilled. Talks can commence only after these two conditions have been met.” These developments emerge at a time when the temporary ceasefire currently in effect between Iran and the US remains in a highly fragile state. Iran maintains that this agreement encompasses a halt to Israeli military operations in Lebanon. However, the United States and Israel contend that this ceasefire does not apply to Hezbollah targets.

JD Vance Departs for Islamabad for Talks
Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance has departed for Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, to participate in the negotiations. Prior to his departure, Vance remarked, “We remain optimistic regarding the talks. If Iran engages in negotiations in good faith, the United States is prepared to cooperate.” He further added that should Iran attempt any form of deception or maneuvering, the US delegation would adopt a firm stance. Vance will lead the US delegation during these negotiations. According to White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt, this delegation will include U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

**Arrival of Iranian Leaders in Islamabad Unconfirmed**
The first round of talks between the two countries is expected to commence in Islamabad on Saturday morning, around 10:00 AM. This meeting is being held with the objective of bringing an end to the conflict that has been ongoing in West Asia for over a month. Prior to this, both nations had reached an agreement on an immediate two-week ceasefire. According to Iranian media, the Iranian delegation will be led personally by Ghalibaf, who has been playing a pivotal strategic role throughout this conflict. However, it has not yet been confirmed whether Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Aragchi, and other senior leaders have arrived in Pakistan.

**Tight Security Arrangements in Islamabad and Rawalpindi**
Although the arrival of the Iranian delegation in Pakistan has not yet been officially confirmed, preparations for the talks have been completed. Stringent security measures have been implemented in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, and its twin city, Rawalpindi. The Government of Pakistan has imposed a complete lockdown in both cities. As a precautionary measure, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration has issued orders to keep schools, colleges, and both government and private offices closed. Additionally, all shops and markets have been shut down.

**Over 10,000 Security Personnel Deployed Ahead of Talks**
Given the security requirements, personnel from the Pakistan Rangers and the Pakistan Army have been deployed in every corner of the city. Officials state that their top priority is to prevent any untoward incidents during these crucial talks concerning the ceasefire. To ensure the safety of the foreign dignitaries, Pakistan has deployed over 10,000 security personnel. The Islamabad Police have closed off several highways, as well as the main roads connecting Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The police have appealed to the general public to step out of their homes only for essential purposes and not to venture out without an identity card.