Islamabad, Geneva Or Istanbul: Where Could Round Two Of US-Iran Talks Happen?

Last Updated:April 14, 2026, 12:38 IST

With mediation efforts intensifying and urgency mounting, three cities - Islamabad, Geneva, and Istanbul - have emerged as frontrunners for round two of US-Iran talks.

The collapse of the first round of US–Iran talks has not shut the door on diplomacy, it has only intensified the scramble to restart it. Following the failure though, the US has begun a blockade of Strait of Hormuz, taking on Iran at the strategic waterway. With tensions still high after the failed negotiations and a fragile ceasefire window narrowing, all eyes are now on where the second round of talks will take place. With multiple cities being weighed not just for logistical convenience, but for what they signal politically in a deeply mistrustful geopolitical environment, that remains to be seen.

What makes this decision critical is the context in which these talks are unfolding. Before the conflict spiralled into open confrontation, the US and Iran had already tried to engage diplomatically in Geneva, but those efforts failed to yield a breakthrough. The subsequent Islamabad talks were meant to reset the process, yet they too collapsed despite coming close to a deal. Now, with mediation efforts intensifying and urgency mounting, three cities – Islamabad, Geneva, and Istanbul – have emerged as frontrunners for hosting what could be a decisive second round.

Islamabad: The Current Frontrunner, But Not Certain

The first round was held in Islamabad and marked a rare moment of direct engagement between Washington and Tehran. However, the talks ended without an agreement despite prolonged negotiations.

Pakistan is now pushing hard to host again. Sources suggest Islamabad is being actively considered for a second round. Pakistani officials are continuing mediation efforts behind the scenes. There is a push to maintain continuity rather than shift venues immediately, according to top diplomatic sources.

Despite the failure, both sides indicated willingness to continue. Some reports even suggested negotiators were “inches away" from a deal before talks broke down. While Islamabad remains a strong contender due to continuity, its association with a failed round may complicate its chances.

Security issues, too, may add to doubts surrounding Islamabad.

Iranian academic Mohammad Marandi, who was part of the delegation, said the negotiations were cut short under tense and unusual circumstances. According to him, the talks — seen as part of a broader effort to de-escalate tensions between Washington and Tehran — did not conclude in a planned or orderly manner. “The delegation did not feel safe," Marandi said, alleging that credible security threats emerged during the course of the talks in Islamabad. He did not specify the nature or source of these threats but stressed that the situation was serious enough to warrant immediate contingency measures.

Geneva: A Return To Neutral Ground?

Before the war began, talks between the US and Iran were taking place in Geneva, but failed to produce results, prompting a shift in venue. Now, Geneva is back in consideration.

According to sources, US officials are exploring options for a second round and weighing different locations. Geneva has re-emerged as a possible venue alongside Islamabad

The Swiss city offers clear advantages:

• A long track record of hosting sensitive negotiations
• Political neutrality
• Distance from immediate regional pressures

Istanbul: The Possible Wildcard?

A third city is quietly gaining traction – Istanbul. Turkey has positioned itself as an active mediator. According to some reports, Istanbul had been discussed as a possible venue even before Islamabad was finalised. Reports say it is now re-emerging as an alternative if both sides seek a fresh start.

Istanbul’s appeal lies in its geographic and political positioning between East and West, its ability to host high-stakes negotiations quickly, and relative neutrality compared to regional players.

What Went Wrong In Islamabad

The failure of the first round is central to the venue debate. The key sticking points included:

• Iran’s nuclear programme
• US demands on uranium enrichment limits
• Sanctions relief and security guarantees

Despite making significant progress, deep mistrust ultimately derailed the talks. The breakdown has only increased pressure to quickly reconvene in a setting that both sides are comfortable with.

What Happens Next?

According to sources, US President Donald Trump is keen to end the conflict swiftly and claim diplomatic credit, particularly ahead of his scheduled visit to China in May. The urgency, sources suggest, is as much political as it is strategic, and the US is therefore hoping for a second round as soon as this week.

The timeline is tight, and the stakes are high. According to CNN, efforts are underway to move quickly if conditions align.

Where the talks are held next will do more than set the stage, it will shape the direction and tone of the next phase of US–Iran diplomacy.

News world Islamabad, Geneva Or Istanbul: Where Could Round Two Of US-Iran Talks Happen?

Read More