Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad with a senior delegation, signalling renewed diplomatic momentum as Pakistan steps in as a mediator to revive stalled negotiations between Iran and the United States. His visit included meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with senior officials such as Ishaq Dar and army chief Asim Munir, reflecting the importance Islamabad is placing on its mediating role.
Iran has made it clear that there will be no direct engagement with US representatives during this phase. Instead, Tehran’s position will be communicated through Pakistani interlocutors, with officials emphasising that indirect diplomacy remains the preferred channel for now. Iranian spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei stated that discussions in Islamabad are aimed at conveying Iran’s concerns and exploring ways to de-escalate tensions.
At the same time, US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to arrive in Islamabad, indicating parallel diplomatic engagement. The White House has confirmed that while talks may not be direct, they will be facilitated through Pakistan, with coordination involving senior US leadership including JD Vance and Marco Rubio.
Donald Trump has also indicated that Iran may be preparing a proposal aimed at meeting US conditions, though details remain unclear. He reiterated that any agreement would require Tehran to curb its nuclear programme and ensure free movement of oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which remains a central point of contention.
Negotiations have been stalled largely due to disagreements over the maritime situation in the Gulf. Iran has linked future engagement to changes in the blockade environment, while the US has maintained pressure through both sanctions and military measures. The sharp drop in shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz highlights the broader economic and strategic stakes involved.
Araghchi’s visit is part of a wider diplomatic outreach that includes planned stops in Muscat and Moscow, suggesting a coordinated effort to build momentum across multiple fronts. While no formal breakthrough has been announced, simultaneous movements by both sides indicate a renewed attempt to reopen dialogue and reduce tensions through mediated channels.
