Islamabad, Apr 11 — An Iranian delegation led by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf arrived in Islamabad on Saturday carrying symbolic reminders of the human toll of the ongoing conflict, as high-stakes talks with the United States are set to begin.
Blood-stained school bags, children’s shoes, white flowers, and photographs from Minab were placed in the front row of the delegation’s flight, underscoring the impact of the violence.
Sharing an image on X, Ghalibaf wrote, “My companions on this flight #Minab168,” alongside a photograph showing him looking at the children’s belongings and images.
The Iranian side, led by Ghalibaf and accompanied by Abbas Araghchi and other officials, arrived early Saturday and was received by senior Pakistani leaders, including Ishaq Dar, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Asim Munir, and Mohsin Naqvi.
Meanwhile, delegations from Iran and the United States are scheduled to meet in Islamabad for peace talks centred on Tehran’s proposed 10-point ceasefire plan.
On the US side, Vice President JD Vance is expected to attend along with special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Vance’s visit marks the first by a US vice president to Pakistan since 2011.
Officials said the talks are aimed at de-escalation and exploring pathways to a ceasefire amid continued hostilities.