US ‘advance team’ arrives in Islamabad ahead of second round of Iran talks: sources

Two U.S. planes carrying an “advance team” landed in Islamabad on Sunday, as Pakistani sources indicated preparations for a potential second round of technical-level talks with Iranian counterparts.

The development comes amid ongoing efforts to negotiate an end to the recent U.S.-Iran conflict that has disrupted the Middle East, including impacts on global energy supplies. Pakistani government sources told Anadolu Agency that logistical arrangements are already underway for the arrival of both U.S. and Iranian delegations, with technical teams possibly convening as early as Monday in the Pakistani capital.

This follows the initial high-level Islamabad Talks held earlier in April 2026, which involved senior U.S. figures such as Vice President JD Vance and Iranian officials. Those discussions, mediated by Pakistan, focused on key issues but appear to have transitioned into expert-level negotiations.

Sources spoke on condition of anonymity, emphasizing that the advance team’s arrival signals intensified diplomatic activity at venues like Islamabad’s Serena Hotel. No official confirmation has yet been issued by U.S. or Iranian authorities on the exact timing or agenda for the next round.

Pakistan continues to play a central mediating role, with officials including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and military leadership facilitating the process.