Daily brief
An Iranian delegation is traveling to Islamabad for talks with the United States, though Iran's ambassador to Pakistan initially announced the delegation would arrive Thursday night and later deleted the social media post containing that information. The US and Iran are preparing for negotiations in Pakistan following a tenuous ceasefire, with US Senator JD Vance expected to lead the American delegation. Israeli military operations in Lebanon are threatening the peace talks, as Iranian officials and regional diplomats warn the attacks undermine the diplomatic process. Pakistan has condemned the Israeli aggression, and French President Macron and Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif have jointly criticized the attacks.
Israel has questioned Pakistan's credibility as a mediator in the US-Iran talks, calling the role 'not credible.' (ongoing coverage)
Lebanon's Prime Minister has asked Pakistan to confirm the country's inclusion in truce talks.
Pakistan's envoy to the US acknowledged China's quiet but persuasive role in the Iran talks.