WASHINGTON: US Vice President JD Vance has communicated to intermediaries from Pakistan that President Donald Trump is open to a ceasefire with Iran, provided certain US conditions are met, Reuters reported citing a source familiar with the matter.
It said that Vance delivered a “stern message,” indicating Trump’s impatience and warning that pressure on Iran’s infrastructure would intensify if Tehran does not move toward an agreement.
Pakistan has been playing an intermediary role between Washington and Tehran, the source added.
The war between the United States, Israel, and Iran, now in its second month, began on February 28 and has plunged the Middle East into deep turmoil.
Pakistan has intensified its diplomatic efforts to help bring an end to the US-Israel war involving Iran.
As part of this push, Islamabad hosted key regional ministers from Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt, while also facilitating the exchange of messages between Washington and Tehran.
On Tuesday, Pakistan and China jointly called on the United States, Israel, and Iran to halt ongoing strikes and begin “peace talks as soon as possible.”
The appeal followed a high-level meeting in Beijing between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
The two sides also outlined a five-point peace initiative, which included an immediate ceasefire, the prompt resumption of dialogue, the protection of non-military targets and vital shipping routes, and adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter.
Reuters further reported that Vance has taken on a more prominent role in negotiations as the conflict enters its fifth week. Seen by many as a potential successor to Trump in the 2028 presidential race, he has maintained a cautious stance, consistent with his longstanding skepticism of extended US military engagements abroad.
Meanwhile, Trump has warned of possible US strikes on Iranian infrastructure but has held off on targeting Iran’s power grid until April 6, in hopes that diplomatic efforts will lead to a deal, Reuters said.
Iran Asked for ceasefire
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that Iran has asked the United States for a ceasefire and said he will only consider the request after Iran has reopened the Strait of Hormuz.
Until then, Trump added, “we are blasting Iran into oblivion” and “back to the Stone Ages!!!”
“Iran’s New Regime President, much less Radicalized and far more intelligent than his predecessors, has just asked the United States of America for a CEASEFIRE! We will consider when Hormuz Strait is open, free, and clear,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
