As the two-week ceasefire in the Middle East takes effect, all eyes are on a high-stakes mediation meeting scheduled for Saturday in Islamabad. Representing the United States, Vice President JD Vance is already en route to Pakistan. While international media speculated the presence of Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Tehran has officially clarified that he will not attend. It remains unclear who will represent Iran at the table.

Political analysts view JD Vance’s participation as a calculated strategy by President Donald Trump. Vance has historically questioned aggressive military escalations, making him a unique choice for these negotiations.

However, tensions remain high as President Trump criticized Iran on social media, accusing them of violating the ceasefire terms by keeping the Strait of Hormuz closed. Meanwhile, India has officially welcomed the ceasefire. In a statement, New Delhi expressed hope for “permanent peace in West Asia,” highlighting the suffering of civilians and the disruption of global energy supplies. India urged for the immediate and unhindered movement of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz to restore global trade stability.