A member of Iran’s delegation to talks with the US in Pakistan said the team felt seriously threatened while returning to Tehran, claiming their plane diverted to Mashhad before members traveled onward by train, car and bus.
In an interview with Al-Mayadeen English, Mohammad Marandi said the talks ended abruptly after what he described as an intervention by US Vice President JD Vance.
Marandi said the delegation’s aircraft diverted unexpectedly and made an emergency landing in the northeastern city of Mashhad. Members of the delegation then continued their journey to Tehran by train, car and bus.
Marandi claimed the Iranian team believed they faced a serious threat during their return journey, though he did not provide details about the source of the alleged danger.
Despite the concerns, he said the delegation remained determined to return home and refused to stay in Pakistan following the breakdown of the talks.
https://www.iranintl.com/en/202604143227
Targeted Aircraft: A Mahan Air plane at Mashhad International Airport, scheduled for a humanitarian aid flight to New Delhi, was damaged during US strikes.
Economic Impact: Iran’s airlines face $600 million in lost revenue, with total war-related economic losses estimated at $140–145 billion.
Wider Damage: Multiple Iranian airlines including Iran Air and Zagros were affected, with 20 planes destroyed and 40 damaged, alongside attacks on seven airports.
An aircraft belonging to Mahan Air was damaged during US strikes on Mashhad Airport in Iran on March 30, Iranian officials told Asian News International (ANI).
The airplane was stationed at Mashhad International Airport and was reportedly scheduled to fly to New Delhi as part of a humanitarian aid operation. The aircraft was expected to arrive in New Delhi in the days after the strike to facilitate the transportation of medical equipment and assistance.
The US has not officially taken responsibility for the strike.