Iran’s no-show in Islamabad exposes Pakistan’s risky play between US and China

Avinash MohananeyET Bureau
Apr 27, 2026 | 12:04 IST

This risky double-game may dent Islamabad’s relations with Beijing, as also cause international humiliation

Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi’s refusal to meet the US delegation, led by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who were scheduled to travel to Pakistan for the second round of ‘Islamabad talks’ on April 25, once again exposes Pakistan’s risky double game.

US President Donald Trump had to cancel the visit of the delegation, when it became clear that Araghchi had no intention of meeting the Americans in Islamabad. The question arises as to who promised Trump that a meeting between the US officials and Araghchi was possible in Islamabad despite Iranians clearly stating that they were no more interested in another round of dialogue.
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