Iran war LIVE updates: Flights resume in Tehran, Islamabad on high alert before US-Iran talks

Tehran: Developments in the ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States continue to unfold, with key diplomatic and security moves shaping the situation on Saturday.

Iran resumed commercial flight operations from Tehran International Airport for the first time since hostilities began nearly two months ago. The move signals a partial return to normalcy even as uncertainty persists around potential negotiations.

Meanwhile, Islamabad remains under tight security restrictions, with large parts of the city effectively locked down for over a week. The heightened alert comes ahead of expected indirect talks between Washington and Tehran, with Pakistan playing a mediating role.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held meetings with Pakistani officials, including military leadership, but Tehran has clarified that no direct engagement with US representatives is scheduled during this visit. Officials indicated that messages between the two sides may instead be conveyed through intermediaries.

On the diplomatic front, former US President Donald Trump stated that nuclear weapons would not be used in the conflict, emphasising that conventional military strategies had already caused significant damage. He also urged patience in reaching any long-term agreement.

In a parallel development, the US administration has imposed fresh sanctions targeting a China-based refinery and dozens of shipping entities linked to Iranian oil exports. The move is part of a broader effort to curb Tehran’s revenue streams amid the conflict.

Despite ongoing ceasefire efforts in some regions, tensions remain high across West Asia. Reports of strikes in neighbouring areas and continued military build-up highlight the fragile nature of the situation.

As diplomatic backchannels remain active, global attention is now focused on whether indirect negotiations facilitated through Pakistan can lead to a breakthrough or further escalation.