How Pakistan became an unlikely bridge between the United States and Iran | CNN
The streets of Islamabad have been emptied by a sudden two-day public holiday, declared to enforce a strict security lockdown in the Pakistani capital. Behind the barricades, diplomatic activity is operating at a fever pitch as the world holds its breath for this weekendâs make-or-break ceasefire talks between the United States and Iran. Pakistan, a nation more frequently making international headlines for its heightened militancy and shaky economy, is hosting the first direct talks between Washington and Tehran, working to end a weeks-long war that has left thousands dead and sent shockwaves across the globe. It is a stunning pivot for a country historically viewed through the lens of deep security concerns. The breakthrough underscores just how much Islamabadâs relationship with the White House has evolved since President Donald Trumpâs first term, when he accused Pakistan of giving Washington ânothing but lies and deceit.â Vice President JD Vance along with Trumpâs special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner are expected to attend this weekendâs talks, with Vance the most senior US official to visit Pakistan since 2011. Analysts attribute this transfor
Source: For the complete article, please visit the original source link below.
