Trump Cancels US Delegation’s Trip to Pakistan for Iran Talks

President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that he had independently decided to cancel a planned trip to Pakistan for U.S. negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who were set to engage with Iran.

In an exclusive chat with Fox News’ Ayesha Husni, Trump expressed that the long journey wasn’t justified, emphasizing that the U.S. holds a dominant position in the ongoing issues with Iran. “We informed our team that we were preparing to depart, but ultimately decided against the lengthy 18-hour flight. We have all the leverage. They can reach out whenever, but we won’t sit idle after such a long trip,” Trump remarked.

He further elaborated, “I called off the trip and mentioned that we’re ready, willing, and capable whenever they choose to contact us, but we won’t waste time on unnecessary travels.”

In a subsequent post on Truth Social, Trump remarked on the turmoil within Iran, noting that the nation’s leadership is engulfed in “tremendous infighting.” He pointed out, “No one even knows who is in charge, including them.”

Kushner, along with Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law, had been scheduled to meet in Pakistan this weekend for the second round of discussions regarding U.S.-Iran relations, during what was called Operation Epic Fury.

Prior to the cancellation, White House press secretary Caroline Leavitt mentioned progress had been made on the Iranian side over recent days related to potential negotiations to resolve the conflict.

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was in Islamabad on Saturday for discussions with the Pakistani Prime Minister, stating afterward that the talks were fruitful, expressing appreciation for Pakistan’s efforts to foster peace in the region.

He shared Iran’s vision for a sustainable framework to end the conflict, adding that it remains uncertain if the U.S. is genuinely committed to diplomatic solutions.

Earlier in the week, Vice President J.D. Vance was expected to visit Pakistan for further discussions, but he was called back to the White House, postponing this trip indefinitely. Vance had previously traveled to Pakistan with Kushner and Witkoff for initial talks, though they did not result in a deal.