Islamabad is likely to be the site for the next round of technical negotiations between the United States and Iran, planned for July 11. This decision emerged from a report by Dawn, which cited diplomatic sources. Although Islamabad appears to be the frontrunner, Switzerland’s Burgenstock resort remains under consideration as an alternative location. The discussions are aimed at advancing the diplomatic process following a memorandum of understanding signed by the US and Iran on June 18.

The recent negotiations are vital in fostering dialogue after a significant pause in discussions, which had previously occurred in Switzerland on June 21, where mediators from Pakistan and Qatar facilitated talks. The upcoming meeting is expected to address crucial matters including Iran’s nuclear programme, the relief of sanctions, and the status of Iranian assets held abroad, alongside regional security concerns.

According to sources, the July 11 discussions aim to build upon the framework established under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, which stipulated a 60-day timeline for both parties to negotiate a comprehensive agreement related to Iran’s nuclear activities and relevant issues.

Impact of Recent Events on Negotiations

Negotiations were momentarily suspended due to the extended state funeral ceremonies for Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Khamenei, who led Iran for three decades, passed away on February 28, 2026, amid a series of substantial air strikes from the US and Israel on Tehran. The funeral services are to be held from July 5 to July 7 in Tehran and Qom, with the final burial taking place in Mashhad on July 9.

Following the conclusion of the funeral ceremonies, Iranian officials have indicated they will announce the delegation representing Tehran at the forthcoming talks. Diplomatic sources have highlighted that the discussions will centre not only on the nuclear programme and sanctions relief but also on stabilising the Strait of Hormuz and maintaining the ceasefire recently established in Lebanon.

This round of negotiations follows earlier indirect discussions that took place in Doha, where US President Donald Trump characterised the interactions as “very good.” Iranian representatives claimed an understanding had been reached regarding the partial release of billions of dollars of frozen assets, although US officials reportedly refuted this assertion.

Role of Mediators in Ongoing Dialogue

Mediators from Qatar and Pakistan continue to play a crucial role in facilitating indirect contacts during this interval in negotiations, especially as discussions aim to ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and uphold the agreed ceasefire established after the June meetings in Switzerland. High-level negotiations previously held at Burgenstock, likewise mediated by Qatar and Pakistan, produced a roadmap for a potential broader agreement covering critical aspects such as Iran’s nuclear programme and associated sanctions relief.

Although progress was reportedly made during these extensive discussions, negotiators have cautioned that the process remains delicate amidst ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran. Familiar sources from the talks have suggested that direct high-level negotiations are anticipated to occur in Doha during the third week of July, contingent upon technical teams finalising the details of a prospective agreement.

The upcoming round of talks signifies a vital step in the ongoing dialogue between the two nations, with the international community closely monitoring the outcomes in light of the region’s stability and security dynamics.

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