US-Hosted Iran Talks: A Race Against Time for Peace in West Asia

US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are set to travel to Pakistan for direct talks with an Iranian delegation, the White House announced. This comes as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the seven-week conflict in West Asia, underscoring the US administration's commitment to finding a peaceful solution.

Officials hope the talks will build on previous discussions led by Vice President J D Vance, though those efforts did not secure a firm commitment from Iran regarding its nuclear program. President Trump endorsed this latest diplomatic engagement after receiving a request from Iranian officials for in-person negotiations.

The involvement of Pakistan as an intermediary is crucial, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visiting Islamabad, Oman, and Russia to sync bilateral and regional strategies. The diplomatic community is optimistic that these talks could pave the way for a potential resolution.

(With inputs from agencies.)