US-Iran ceasefire nears deadline as Islamabad set to host crucial round of talks

Islamabad: The fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran is nearing its expiration, with just one day remaining before the deadline, while a second round of high-stakes negotiations is likely to begin in Islamabad.

The current truce is set to expire at midnight on April 21, placing urgency on both sides to reach a decision on its extension. Officials indicate that the future of the ceasefire will be determined during upcoming talks between the two countries.

Sources suggest that the second round of negotiations is expected to commence in Islamabad, with a U.S. delegation scheduled to arrive later today. U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed that his negotiating team is heading to Pakistan for the discussions.

The talks aim to de-escalate tensions and potentially transform the temporary ceasefire into a long-term peace agreement.

The first round of negotiations, previously held in Islamabad, ended without a final deal but both sides agreed to continue diplomatic engagement.

Meanwhile, stringent security arrangements have been put in place in the federal capital. Movement in the Red Zone has been restricted, and additional personnel have been deployed at sensitive locations, signaling the significance of the anticipated .

Diplomatic efforts by Pakistan continue to intensify, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently holding a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has also engaged with counterparts from multiple countries, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Türkiye, to facilitate dialogue.

While some concerns have been raised by Iran over recent developments, officials remain hopeful that Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives will help bring both sides closer to a lasting resolution.