US and Iran Begin Direct Talks in Pakistan Amid Tensions Over Lebanon and Sanctions

US and Iranian delegations have entered direct negotiations in Islamabad, Pakistan, in an attempt to end their six-week conflict. Sources confirmed the talks began on Saturday after Pakistan facilitated separate preliminary meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The US team, led by Vice President JD Vance, and the Iranian side, headed by Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, are engaging face-to-face — a critical shift after initial plans for indirect talks. Pakistani mediators remain present