New Delhi, April 11: Former Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Veena Sikri, stated on Saturday that Iran had requested to participate in peace talks with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, currently taking place in Islamabad, as they are viewed as anti-war leaders.
In her remarks, Sikri described Pakistan’s role as “choreographed by the U.S.”
She noted, “Just days ago, U.S. President Donald Trump spoke about ‘devastating’ Iran, and a ceasefire was reached at the last moment.”
According to Sikri, the ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran was prompted by global concerns over the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
She emphasized that despite ongoing attacks, Iran has demonstrated its independence and resilience.
Reports indicate that peace talks between U.S. and Iranian delegations are ongoing in Islamabad, hosted by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Sikri recalled that similar discussions took place in Muscat in February, mediated by Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi.
At that time, Iran had accepted all U.S. conditions, and a “breakthrough” was anticipated. However, Israel attacked Iran, receiving support from the U.S.
This has led to a growing distrust of the U.S. and Israel in Iran, making them cautious about the current negotiations.
Sikri pointed out that Iran’s desire for Vance’s presence stems from past experiences with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
She remarked, “It is often said in the U.S. that J.D. Vance has always been against war.”
She clarified that direct talks between Washington and Tehran have not yet commenced, but if they begin soon, there could be progress in discussions.
Questioning Pakistan’s role, she noted that the ‘draft’ tag seen in Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s ex-post announcement indicates that “Pakistan is doing what the U.S. is telling it to do.”
Sikri also mentioned that Iran had demanded the release of its frozen funds in exchange for allowing movement through the Strait of Hormuz, which the U.S. rejected.
“This clearly indicates that some form of bargaining is underway,” she stated. Sikri warned that if Israeli attacks in Lebanon do not cease, Iran will not continue the talks. She added that Israel is not in favor of these discussions, as its expectations have not been met, and it may strike again.
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