US-Iran peace talks on Saturday; US looks for way out of war, Lebanon attacks pose challenge

WASHINGTON: Ahead of peace talks scheduled to begin on Saturday, US President Donald Trump has asked Vice President J D Vance to find a way to exit the war with Iran. The talks between Iran and the US are set to take place in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. There are concerns that ongoing Israeli attacks against Hezbollah in Lebanon could affect the peace talks.

Israel has continued its airstrikes in Lebanon despite Trump’s request. Hezbollah also launched an attack on an Israeli naval base in Ashdod. The number of people killed in Lebanon has crossed 300 after the ceasefire in Iran came into effect. Iran has warned that it will not participate in talks if attacks in Lebanon continue. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel will hold separate discussions with the Lebanese government.

There are major differences between the demands raised by Iran to end the war and those of the US and its ally Israel. Apart from Vance, Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner are also part of the US delegation.

Iran’s team will be led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. It is not yet clear whether the talks will be direct or indirect. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will hold separate meetings with both sides.

“If Iran acts in good faith, we will cooperate with them. But if they try to take advantage of the US, it will not be acceptable,” said Vice President J.D. Vance.

Trump criticizes Iran
Trump said Iran has failed to keep its promise to keep the Strait of Hormuz open. Iran had warned that it would attack ships trying to pass through the strait without its permission. However, 18 ships have crossed the strait after the ceasefire.

US drone missing
Reports say a US MQ-4C Triton surveillance drone has gone missing near the Strait of Hormuz. The incident happened on Friday morning. The drone, which was flying over the Persian Gulf towards Iran, reportedly changed direction slightly before suddenly crashing. It is not yet clear whether the drone was shot down by Iran or crashed due to a technical issue. The US has not responded yet. The Triton drone, worth over $200 million, is one of the most expensive drones used by the US military.