What’s Being Discussed in US-Iran Talks in Pakistan?

Top US and Iranian officials met in Islamabad on Saturday for high-stakes talks aimed at ending their Middle East conflict, which has killed thousands, disrupted energy markets, and strained the global economy.

Here are the key issues expected to dominate discussions, with Tehran insisting that formal negotiations can begin only after Washington commits to a ceasefire in Lebanon and the lifting of sanctions on Iran.

Iran is pushing for a ceasefire in Lebanon, where Israeli strikes on the Iran-backed Hezbollah group have killed nearly 2,000 people since fighting began in March. While Israel and the US say the Lebanon campaign is separate from any Iran-US ceasefire, Tehran maintains it is directly linked.

Tehran is also demanding that the US unblock its frozen assets and lift long-standing sanctions that have severely damaged its economy. Washington has signaled openness to significant sanctions relief, but only in exchange for Iranian concessions on its nuclear and missile programmes.

Iran is seeking recognition of its authority over the Strait of Hormuz, including the ability to control access and collect transit fees—moves that would significantly alter regional power dynamics. The US, however, insists the vital waterway must remain open to all traffic without restrictions or tolls.

Tehran is expected to press for compensation for damage caused during the six-week war, a demand on which Washington has not publicly commented.

Iran also wants to retain its right to enrich uranium, a position firmly rejected by the US, with President Donald Trump calling it non-negotiable.

Meanwhile, Israel and the US are pushing for a sharp reduction in Iran’s missile capabilities, which Tehran insists are non-negotiable.

Finally, Iran is calling for the withdrawal of US combat forces from the region, an end to ongoing conflicts, and guarantees of non-aggression. Trump, however, has vowed to maintain US military presence in the Middle East until a peace deal is reached, warning of major escalation if negotiations fail.