Live: Pak Iran Ties

• ISPR says ‘intensive negotiations’ resulted in ‘encouraging progress’ towards agreement
• Trump claims MoU on peace deal ‘largely negotiated’, will only sign when ‘we get everything we want’
• Tehran says accord in ‘finalisation’ stage
• Ghalibaf asserts Iran has rebuilt military capabilities during lull in fighting

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir concluded a high-stakes visit to Tehran on Saturday after intense negotiations that produced encouraging progress towards a final understanding between Iran and the United States to end the conflict.

The two-day visit marked the most consequential mediation effort since the direct talks hosted by Pakistan last month. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Field Marshal Munir had held “high-level engagements” with the Iranian leadership “as part of ongoing mediation efforts aimed at promoting de-escalation and constructive engagement”.

“The discussions remained focused upon expediting the consultative process underway to support peace and stability in the region and to reach a conclusive agreement,” the ISPR said in a statement. “The intensive negotiations over the last twenty-four hours have resulted in encouraging progress towards a final understanding.”

FM Munir met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, parliament speaker and chief negotiator Bagher Ghalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni. The statement stopped short of announcing any breakthrough, but midnight media reports suggested that an agreement was within reach.

In a post on Truth Social on Saturday night, President Trump said that a memorandum of understanding on a peace deal has been “largely negotiated” with Iran and will open the Strait of Hormuz, with details to be unveiled soon. “Final aspects and details of the deal are currently being discussed, and will be announced shortly,” the US president wrote on social.

Speaking about the negotiations, US President Donald Trump told CBS News that Washington and Tehran were “getting a lot closer” to reaching an agreement. “Every day, it gets better and better,” he said, adding that any potential deal would ensure Iran’s enriched uranium was “satisfactorily handled”, though he declined to elaborate further. “I will only sign a deal where we get everything we want,” he said.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei, meanwhile, said negotiations had entered the “finalisation stage” of a memorandum of understanding. “The issues that are being discussed at this stage are generally focused on ending the war,” he said. “The issue of ending the US naval aggression and issues related to the release of blocked Iranian assets are among the main issues that are addressed in this memorandum of understanding.”

“Within a reasonable period of 30 to 60 days, the details of these points will be discussed and a final agreement will ultimately be concluded. We are currently in the process of finalising these memoranda of understanding,” he told state broadcaster IRIB.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also said that some progress had been made on Washington’s dispute with Iran and that the US might have “something to say” on the issue in the coming days. “There’s been some progress done, some progress made, even as I speak to you now, there’s some work being done. There is a chance that, whether it’s later today, tomorrow, in a couple days, we may have something to say,” he told reporters during his visit to New Delhi.

The Iranian comments reinforced growing indications that the current diplomacy was geared towards an understanding meant to stabilise the situation while harder disputes are negotiated later.

Meanwhile, Iran and Pakistan submitted a revised proposal to the United States to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reported, quoting two Pakistani sources familiar with the negotiations.

According to diplomats, the likely contours of a proposed framework included continuation of the ceasefire, partial easing of the naval blockade, guarantees for maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, limited economic relief and subsequent negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme and sanctions architecture.

Reporting in Iranian media suggested Tehran could show flexibility on its plan for maritime tolling arrangements, though Iranian officials continued to insist the Strait’s management remained fundamentally a regional matter involving littoral states. That issue has increasingly emerged alongside the nuclear file as one of the central disputes in the negotiations.

Lingering uncertainty

As the talks continued, the military environment also remained volatile. US aerial refuelling operations near Saudi and Emirati airspace continued through the week, signalling that Washington was maintaining operational readiness even as talks intensified.

US President Donald Trump added to the uncertainty by saying he was “solid 50/50” on whether diplomacy would succeed or bombing would resume. Iranian officials, meanwhile, coupled diplomatic flexibility with hardline public messaging aimed at domestic audiences.

Iranian speaker Ghalibaf, who was recently reappointed head of Iran’s negotiating team, warned during his meeting with Field Marshal Munir that Iran had rebuilt its military capabilities during the ceasefire.

“If Trump commits a stupidity and the war starts again, it will definitely be more devastating and bitter for America than the first day of the war,” he said. “We will not compromise on the rights of our nation and country.”

Mr Ghalibaf also accused Washington of violating earlier understandings. “We were negotiating when America started the war and now it says let’s negotiate to end it,” he said.

Published in Dawn, May 24th, 2026

PAKISTAN’S mediation efforts in the Iran-US crisis appear to be entering their most consequential phase yet.

The statement by ISPR following Field Marshal Asim Munir’s visit to Tehran spoke of “encouraging progress towards a final understanding” after intensive negotiations with Iran’s senior leadership. That language matters because developments over the past 24 hours suggest the talks have moved beyond broad appeals for restraint into detailed bargaining over the terms of a possible interim arrangement.

According to ISPR, the field marshal held meetings with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi as part of efforts to consolidate the fragile ceasefire that has held since April 8.

Reports suggest the discussions are now focused on finalising a 14-point Iranian framework touching on sanctions relief, the future of the Strait of Hormuz, limits surrounding Iran’s nuclear activities and guarantees against renewed military action.

Yet the atmosphere surrounding the talks remains cautious. Iranian officials continue publicly to insist that Tehran will not compromise on what they describe as national rights and sovereign interests. Speaker Ghalibaf reiterated during talks in Tehran that Iran remained deeply sceptical of US intentions and would respond forcefully to any renewed military escalation.

At the same time, diplomatic activity around Tehran has intensified considerably. Qatar has now joined the mediation effort, while reports suggest discussions are increasingly centred on a temporary memorandum or phased stabilisation formula intended to prevent a return to open conflict while broader negotiations continue. Washington’s messaging reflects the same tension between pressure and diplomacy.

President Donald Trump has continued to warn that military action remains an option if negotiations fail. But senior American officials have simultaneously acknowledged movement on key issues.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spoken of “some progress” while cautioning that major disagreements persist, particularly over Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile and Tehran’s demands relating to the Strait of Hormuz. Mr Rubio also publicly acknowledged Pakistan’s central role, describing it as the “primary interlocutor” in the negotiations and confirming constant communication with Pakistani mediators.

Pakistan deserves credit for helping preserve diplomatic space at a time when the region seemed dangerously close to another escalation cycle. Few countries today maintain workable ties simultaneously with Tehran, Washington, Beijing and the Gulf capitals. That diplomatic flexibility has given Islamabad unusual relevance.

Yet mediation also carries risks. Pakistan must avoid becoming entangled in competing regional agendas or appearing aligned with coercive pressure from any side. The current opening remains fragile. But after weeks dominated by threats, disrupted shipping routes and fears of renewed war, even tentative movement towards a workable understanding offers the region some much-needed reprieve.

Published in Dawn, May 24th, 2026

Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir conducted intensive negotiations with the Iranian leadership over the past 24 hours that have resulted in “encouraging progress towards a final understanding”, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement on Saturday.

The engagements with Iran’s senior leadership were held in a “positive and constructive environment” and contributed meaningfully to the ongoing mediation process, the military’s media wing said following the conclusion of the army chief’s Tehran visit.

The visit came at a time when negotiations appeared to have moved beyond political signalling into detailed bargaining over a narrow interim framework dealing with the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief and guarantees against renewed military action.

“During the visit, the field marshal held high-level engagements with Iranian leadership as part of ongoing mediation efforts aimed at promoting de-escalation and constructive engagement, amidst the regional tensions that have simmered after the ceasefire on 8th April, 2026.”

The discussions between the two sides focused on expediting the ongoing consultative process to “support peace and stability in the region and to reach to a conclusive agreement”.

The statement further said that the Iranian leadership also appreciated Pakistan’s sincere and constructive role in facilitating the dialogue and the promotion of “peaceful settlement of regional issues”.

During his visit to the Iranian capital, the field marshal met President Masoud Pezeshkian, Speaker of Iranian Parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni.

Pakistan has stepped up its diplomatic efforts to break the deadlock, sending the interior minister to Tehran on Wednesday for the second time in less than a week to resuscitate negotiations. He had previously met Iran’s president, parliament speaker and foreign minister over the weekend.

The CDF previously visited Iran for three days last month alongside Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, where he held a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and other officials. The military’s media wing described the visit as part of “ongoing mediation efforts” for de-escalation between Iran and the US.

The mediation process around Tehran has widened over the past 48 hours. Qatar also dispatched a negotiating team to the Iranian capital in coordination with the United States, while Saudi Interior Minister Abdulaziz bin Saud Al Saud spoke to Naqvi in Tehran.

An Iranian diplomat in China also praised Beijing for presenting a peace initiative during the war “with the support of Pakistan”.

Regional diplomats also pointed to signs of softer Emirati messaging in favour of de-escalation and uninterrupted maritime trade.

The latest round of contacts is taking place under heightened pressure from the US and its Middle East allies. US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said talks in Iran were in the final stages, and also threatened to resume strikes if a deal is not reached in a “limited timeframe”.

Iran, meanwhile, warned of confrontation beyond the Middle East in the case of a US attack but also insisted that all paths were open to avert the resumption of hostilities.

‘Primary interlocutor’

A day earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also praised Pakistan’s mediation role, describing it as Washington’s “primary interlocutor” in the talks.

“The primary interlocutor on this has been Pakistan and continues to be, and they’ve done an admirable job,” Fox News quoted him as saying.

He also referred to Field Marshal Asim Munir’s Tehran visit, saying Washington was in “constant communication” with him at the highest levels.

“We’re in constant communication with him, and the highest levels of our government are constantly talking to him,” Rubio said.

Diplomats said the evolving process increasingly resembled a phased stabilisation effort rather than negotiations on a comprehensive settlement.

Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir arrived in Tehran on Friday evening as part of ongoing mediation efforts aimed at bringing the Iran-US war to a conclusion.

On arrival, the army chief was “received and warmly welcomed” by Iran’s Minister for Interior Eskandar Momeni, said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The military’s media wing added that Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi was also present at the reception.

The CDF will discuss US-Iran talks, regional peace and other important issues during the visit, the sources said. He will also meet senior Iranian officials.

Earlier in the day, security sources said the army chief had departed for Iran.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio commented about CDF Munir’s visit to Tehran, saying that the US was in “constant communication with him [and] the highest levels of our government are constantly talking to him”.

He also praised Pakistan for doing an “admirable job” trying to mediate a peace deal between Washington and Tehran.

“The primary interlocutor on this has been Pakistan and continues to be and they’ve done a, you know, I think an admirable job. And that’s what we continue to work through,” Fox News quoted Rubio as saying.

“Obviously, other countries … may have their own situation going on. We talk to all of them. But I would just say that the primary country we’ve been working with on all of this is Pakistan, and that remains the case,” he told reporters in Sweden.

Meanwhile, earlier today, Tasnim News Agency reported that Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a meeting with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to review proposals for resolving disputes, while on an official visit to Tehran.

The visit comes amid ongoing Pakistani efforts to mediate between the US and Iran, after plans for a second round of negotiations in Islamabad fell through.

The first round of historic direct US-Iran talks was held in Islamabad on April 11 and 12, following a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire on April 8. It had ended without an agreement, but also without a breakdown.

US President Donald Trump later called off a planned visit of US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner to travel to Islamabad for a second round of talks with Iran. However, he extended the ceasefire indefinitely “upon the request of Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif”.

Pakistan has stepped up its diplomatic efforts to break the deadlock, sending the interior minister to Tehran on Wednesday for the second time in less than a week to resuscitate negotiations. He had previously met Iran’s president, parliament speaker and foreign minister over the weekend.

The CDF previously visited Iran for three days last month alongside Naqvi, where he held a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and other officials. Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) described the visit as part of “ongoing mediation efforts” for de-escalation between Iran and the US.

Diplomatic sources said Pakistan was continuing to relay messages between Tehran and Washington, but differences over Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, the Strait of Hormuz, and wider regi­onal security concerns linked to Teh­ran’s missile capabilities and allied armed groups continued to impede progress.

The latest round of contacts is taking place under heightened pressure from the US and its Middle East allies. US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said talks in Iran were in the final stages, and also threatened to resume strikes if a deal is not reached in a “limited timeframe”.

Iran, meanwhile, warned of confrontation beyond the Middle East in the case of a US attack but also insisted that all paths were open to avert the resumption of hostilities.

While negotiations currently remain stalled, the Foreign Office (FO) said at the end of April that Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts are continuing, with Islamabad maintaining its role as a facilitator between the two sides despite the apparent impasse.

FO spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said in a press briefing on Friday that PM Shehbaz would be undertaking a visit to China from May 23-26, in which the US-Iran war would be on the agenda for discussion.

However, he said he could neither confirm not deny reports about a “high-level delegation” visiting Iran from Pakistan.

Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said on Wednesday that Tehran had received a new US proposal and was currently examining it.

“We received the points of view of the American side and we are currently examining them,” he told state television.

He reiterates Iran’s demands in talks to end the war, including the release of Iranian assets frozen abroad and an end to the US blockade on Iranian ports.

The Strait of Hormuz — the world’s most important waterway for oil shipments — has been a central point in the US-Iran war.

After the US and Israel attacked Iran on Feb 28, Tehran responded by shutting down the strait and later announced it would charge vessels using the maritime route. In April, the US blockaded Iranian ports to stop its oil exports and returned over 30 ships leaving Iranian ports.

Europe and the rest of the world appears anxious for a swift, diplomatic end to the war, which has ravaged the Middle East and crippled global shipping, causing a fuel crunch across the globe.

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth, however, has claimed, “No one sails from the Strait of Hormuz to anywhere in the world without the permission of the United States Navy.”

Another sticking point remains a lasting ceasefire in Lebanon, where Israel has launched massive strikes since the war began, insisting they are aimed against Hezbollah. The strikes have continued despite the announcement of the ceasefire in April.

Iran maintains that any final deal with the US must include security guarantees for Lebanon to prevent future attacks from Israel.

In addition, it has asked the US to give up regime change plans, unwarranted military aggression against Iran and a guaranteed permanent ceasefire. The US, on the other hand, has demanded an end to Iran targeting Israel and US bases in the Gulf states, as well as its support for regional groups such as Hezbollah.

The US has also said that Iran’s request for the lifting of sanctions and unfreezing of assets can only be considered after Iran gives up on its nuclear ambitions.

DURING US President Donald Trump’s visit to China, the concept of the ‘Thucydides Trap’ invoked by Chinese President Xi Jinping drew the attention of Western strategic circles.

Many observers saw the remark as a subtle indication that China is now more willing to acknowledge its emergence as a global power. For nearly a decade, Beijing carefully avoided projecting itself as a challenger to the international order, cultivating, instead, the image of a leader of the Global South and a partner of developing economies. If that posture is shifting, the implications could be profound for global politics and for countries like Pakistan, positioned at the intersection of great-power competition, economic dependency and regional strategic realignment.

The Thucydides Trap broadly refers to a historical pattern where an established power is threatened by the rise of a new one, creating conditions that could lead to conflict. Xi’s use of the phrase in the context of US-China ties was therefore significant. It was a carefully calibrated political message aimed at Washington.

Many observers interpreted it as a subtle indication by Beijing that it increasingly views the US as a declining power struggling to preserve an international order that long served American interests.

At the same time, China’s leadership appears more confident in presenting itself as both an economic giant and a central actor in shaping the future global order.

This confidence is rooted in economic realities. Over the last two decades, China has transformed itself into the principal manufacturing and trading hub across Eurasia and much of the Global South, while the US continues to dominate the financial and military architecture of the Atlantic alliance system. China’s trade volume exceeded $6 trillion in 2025, and its expanding influence in green technology, infrastructure development and industrial production is now challenging the foundations of the post-1945 US-led order.

Yet the US retains structural advantages through dollar dominance, technological innovation, semiconductor leadership, military alliances, global universities and capital markets. For this reason, most projections for the coming decade point not towards the complete decline of one power or the absolute victory of another, but a fragmented, increasingly bipolar international system shaped by sustained US-China rivalry in technology, finance, AI and geopolitical influence.

China wants all the advantages of great-power competition without a major military confrontation with the US. It prefers to confine the rivalry to the economic and technological domains.

However, a global power is also expected to assume broader strategic and security responsibilities, and the US appears interested in drawing China into a region long dominated by American influence.

Several Western allies remain careful about deeper involvement in the conflict with Iran, but Beijing’s economic ties with and political influence over Tehran, though cautiously exercised, have made China an unavoidable factor.

In the midst of power competition, Pakistan must ably balance its ties with the US and China.

Nevertheless, Trump publicly claimed that he and Xi agreed that Iran “cannot be allowed” to develop nuclear weapons. The White House further asserted that China had assured Washington it would not supply weapons to Tehran. For some analysts, these remarks hinted at a quiet but important layer of Chinese-Iranian strategic cooperation that Beijing prefers to manage discreetly.

Pakistan’s case is particularly important because Islamabad has become a central channel in facilitating communication between Iran and the US, with China supporting the broader diplomatic effort. For Pakistan, this mediation is critical not only for regional stability but also for balancing its relations with Washington and Beijing. During a conversation between the Chinese and Pakistani foreign ministers before Trump’s visit, Chinese media reported that Beijing had urged Pakistan to step up mediation efforts.

Although the Foreign Office rejected the impression that it was acting under Chinese direction, the episode reinforced the perception that China preferred Pakistan to take a more visible reconciliation role in the Middle East while Beijing itself avoided direct involvement in the US-Iran dispute. This reflects China’s traditional diplomatic approach of limiting overt confrontation with the US while quietly protecting its strategic interests.

Taiwan remains a red line for China, and Washington understands the vulnerabilities of its emerging competitor. Some comparisons have been drawn between Iran and Taiwan as strategic balancing points for the US, though such parallels are limited. Nevertheless, Taiwan is increasingly emerging as a major future fault line.

Lack of trust in diplomacy, especially in mediation efforts, creates both security and political dilemmas, not only for Pakistan but also for Iran, the US and China. Iran appears interested in buying more time, believing prolonged tensions could increase pressure on Washington, while Trump has warned that the US would not permit this indefinitely. China, meanwhile, prefers not to become directly involved in mediation. This makes Pakistan’s role as a trusted intermediary even more important. At present, neither the US nor Iran appears to have another immediate channel to replace Pakistan.

For Islamabad, this is an opportunity to build trust with both sides and strengthen its credentials across West Asia as a reliable diplomatic actor, despite scepticism among some circles in Washington and Tehran. Yet every mediator faces a basic limitation: they can facilitate dialogue but rarely possess enforcement power.

If Pakistan succeeds, its middle-power credentials could strengthen significantly, enabling it to negotiate its economic and strategic interests more effectively both regionally and globally. As part of an emerging middle-power network in the Middle East alongside Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Qatar and Egypt, Pakistan could preserve its critical channels with Washington regardless of changes in the White House.

At the same time, Islamabad would maintain balance in its relations with China, an increasingly important challenge for any country that is a neighbour of a rising global power with which it shares deep economic and strategic ties. This balancing act becomes even more important for Pakistan, given its enduring rivalry with India, which many in Islamabad believe has limited appetite for long-term peace.

In this increasingly complex picture, Pakistan appears to be shaping its geopolitical paradigm around a realist approach focused on balance, strategic flexibility and diplomatic utility.

However, while this paradigm may prove effective in the short term, institutionalising the core values of credible mediation may better serve the country, as institutionalism helps shape and strengthen trust among nations.

The writer is a security analyst.

Published in Dawn, May 17th, 2026

The Foreign Office (FO) on Tuesday termed a report by an American media outlet claiming that Islamabad “quietly allowed” Iranian military aircraft to park on its airfields while playing the role of a mediator in the Middle East conflict as “misleading and sensationalised”.

Citing US officials, CBS News had alleged that days after US President Trump announced the ceasefire with Iran in early April, Tehran sent multiple aircraft to the Nur Khan Air Base.

“Among the military hardware was an Iranian Air Force RC-130, a reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering variant of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules tactical transport aircraft,” the report claimed.

In a response issued on Tuesday, the FO said, “Pakistan categorically rejects the CBS News report regarding the presence of Iranian aircraft at Nur Khan Airbase as misleading and sensationalised. Such speculative narratives appear aimed at undermining ongoing efforts for regional stability and peace.”

“Following the ceasefire and during the initial round of the Islamabad Talks, a number of aircraft from Iran and the US arrived in Pakistan to facilitate the movement of diplomatic personnel, security teams and administrative staff associated with the talks process,” it said.

The FO said that some aircraft and support personnel remained temporarily in Pakistan in “anticipation of subsequent rounds of engagement.

“Although formal negotiations have not yet resumed, senior-level diplomatic exchanges have continued. In this context, visits by the Iranian foreign minister to Islamabad were facilitated through the existing logistical and administrative arrangements,” it said.

“The Iranian aircraft currently parked in Pakistan arrived during the ceasefire period and bear no linkage whatsoever to any military contingency or preservation arrangement. Assertions suggesting otherwise are speculative, misleading, and entirely detached from the factual context,” the FO said.

“Pakistan has consistently acted as an impartial, constructive, and responsible facilitator in support of dialogue and de-escalation. In line with this role, Pakistan has extended routine logistical and administrative support where required, while maintaining full transparency and regular communication with all relevant parties,” it said.

“Pakistan remains committed to supporting all sincere efforts aimed at promoting dialogue, reducing tensions, and advancing regional and global peace, stability, and security,” it added.

The CBS report comes after its new boss, Bari Weiss, ousted a veteran bureau chief following tensions over coverage of the Middle East, bringing in a new foreign editor who, according to sources, “is more aligned with Weiss’s pro-Israel agenda”, The Guardian reported last month.

The report quoted the former colleague of the new hire Shayndi Raice, a Wall Street Journal editor, saying she had a reputation as “much more sympathetic to the Israeli perspective than the Palestinian [one]”.

“Other sources said colleagues concerned with what they saw as a pro-Israel slant repeatedly flagged concerns to the paper’s standards team … They also said that a review of the paper’s coverage of the conflict under her leadership found an overreliance on Israeli sources and analysts,” the report alleged.

Meanwhile, the report said that Weiss, a self-declared “Zionist fanatic” and vocal supporter of the administration’s war on Iran, has long accused the media of an anti-Israel bias.

ISLAMABAD: Iran’s Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Reza Amiri Moghadam believes the region could witness new political alignments once the ongoing war involving the United States and Israel comes to an end.

He was speaking at a roundtable hosted by the Centre for International Strategic Studies (CISS), Islamabad, where diplomats, academics and policy practitioners discussed the future course of Pakistan-Iran ties and the evolving regional situation as the conflict continues under what participants described as a delicate ceasefire.

The Iranian envoy, reflecting the thinking in Tehran, said Iran considers its relationship with Pakistan a priority in the neighbourhood.

While noting that Iran maintains relations with other states, including India, he said Pakistan remained a key partner and the relationship was steadily growing stronger.

The envoy said Iran had consistently pursued friendly relations with neighbouring countries, but predicted that the recent war could significantly reshape regional order. He suggested the conflict could lead to a decline in US influence and further isolation of Israel.

Dr Moghadam said Pakistan-Iran ties had strengthened considerably and raised prospects for a broader regional alliance comprising Iran, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Pakistan after the war ends.

Dr Moghadam thanked Pakistan for what he called steadfast support during difficult times and for facilitating contacts between Washington and Tehran.

He said the two countries shared strong brotherly relations and reaffirmed that Iran would never allow its territory to be used against Pakistan.

Former ambassador Asif Durrani said the Chabahar and Gwadar ports should be viewed as complementary rather than competing projects.

He said Gwadar could potentially serve as a mother port to support wider regional connectivity and trade integration.

Ambassador Durrani said Pakistan’s diplomatic approach reflected engagement with the United States while preserving brotherly ties with Iran.

He stressed that it was a carefully calibrated policy aimed at de-escalation, extending the ceasefire and working towards a durable settlement, while ensuring regional stability and economic security.

Prof Dr Nazir Hussain, former dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Quaid-i-Azam University, said Pakistan and Iran shared deep historical and cultural linkages and had made efforts in recent years to improve coordination, expand border trade and strengthen institutional engagement.

He said there remained significant untapped potential for economic cooperation, particularly in energy, trade and connectivity, with both sides increasingly viewing each other as important partners for regional stability and development.

Earlier, in his welcome remarks, Executive Director of CISS Ambassador Ali Sarwar Naqvi said Pakistan played a constructive role in facilitating a ceasefire between the United States and Iran on April 7, followed by direct bilateral talks on April 11 and 12 after decades of estrangement.

He said Pakistan’s mediation efforts were continuing after the extension of the ceasefire and Islamabad remained committed to supporting initiatives that promote peace and stability in the region.

Published in Dawn, May 9th, 2026

An Israeli drone attack has targeted the road between Kfarchouba and Kfar Hamam in southern Lebanon, Al Jazeera Arabic reports.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday said that he had spoken with Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and requested the country’s support in facilitating the “welfare and repatriation” of 11 Pakistanis and 20 Iranians aboard vessels seized by the United States.

In a post on the social media platform X, he said that the vessels were currently near Singaporean waters. He said that he also spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi “as we remain in close coordination on the matter”.

“Pakistan also stands ready to facilitate the safe repatriation of Iranian nationals to Iran via Pakistan,” he said.

“We appreciate the cooperation and support being extended by Singapore. Pakistan, through its Foreign Office and relevant authorities, is closely coordinating with US authorities and others to ensure the safety, welfare, and earliest possible return of our nationals,” he said.

Meanwhile, regarding the phone call between Dar and the Singaporean foreign minister, the Foreign Office (FO) said on Thursday that the latter appreciated the former’s efforts and Pakistan’s role in promoting peace and stability in the region through facilitating dialogue between the US and Iran.

It said that DPM Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s continued efforts towards peace and development in the region and beyond.

’“The two sides discussed matters related to maritime affairs and recent incidents in international waters. They agreed to closely coordinate between the relevant authorities of the two countries,” it said.

“The two leaders also discussed bilateral relations and underscored the importance of high-level exchanges. They agreed to remain in touch,” the FO said.

The development comes days after Pakis­tan facilitated the return of crew members from a US-seized Iranian vessel, with at least 15 sailors having reached the neighbouring country on Monday.

According to the FO, the transfer of crew members was part of “confidence-building measures”.

The ship in question was boarded and seized by US forces on April 19. The small container ship, which was part of the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) group that has been hit with US sanctions, was boarded off the coast of Iran’s Chabahar port in the Gulf of Oman.

At the time, the US Central Command said the ship’s crew “failed to comply with repeated warnings over a six-hour period”. “American forces issued multiple warnings and informed the Iranian-flagged vessel it was in violation of the US blockade,” it said.

In the phone call with DPM Dar on Thursday, Iran’s Araghchi had thanked Pakistan for “facilitating the repatriation of Iranian nationals from the seized vessels and appreciated Pakistan’s continued diplomatic and humanitarian support in this regard”.

Hormuz, a key shipping lane off the coast of Iran, has been virtually blocked by Tehran since the United States and Israel started bombing Iran on February 28.

Some vessels attempting to transit the Strait have reported being fired on, and Iran seized several other ships. Last month, the US imposed its own blockade of ships from Iranian ports.

• FO spokesperson expects agreement ‘sooner rather than later’, hopes for ‘sustainable solution’
• Officials say Tehran expected to share response today as optimism prevails
• Iranian FM speaks to Dar on ‘importance of continuing’ diplomacy; briefs him about China visit

ISLAMABAD: Pak­is­tan and Iran on Thursday agr­eed on continuing dialogue and diplomacy for ending the war in the Persian Gulf as Islamabad expressed growing optimism that the United States and Iran could soon move towards a peace agreement after weeks of conflict and fragile ceasefire.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi amid indications that Washington and Tehran were edging closer to a preliminary understanding on ending hostilities.

According to the For­eign Office, the two foreign ministers “exchanged views on recent regional developments and ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability.”

The Iranian side said the conversation focused on “the importance of continuing the path of dialogue and diplomacy” and expanding “constructive cooperation” among regi­onal states to preserve stability and prevent escalation.

Mr Araghchi also briefed FM Dar on his recent visit to China and consultations there on regional and international issues. Chinese FM Wang Yi, in his first meeting with Mr Araghchi since the start of the war, urged an immediate comprehensive ceasefire and continued diplomacy. The Iranian diplomat thanked Pakistan for facilitating the repatriation of Iranian nationals from the vessel seized by the US and appreciated Islamabad’s diplomatic support.

The latest diplomatic activity came as Iran reviewed a 14-point proposal from the US for formally ending hostilities and opening a 30-day negotiating window for detailed discussions on Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief and secure transit through the Strait of Hormuz.

Diplomatic sources said the proposal had been conveyed to Tehran through Pakistani mediators and Iranian officials were expected to formally communicate their response by May 8 (today), with Washington awaiting Tehran’s position on key points.

President Trump had announced the suspension of ‘Project Freedom’, the US naval plan to escort commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz, citing progress in talks and requests from Pakistan and others, while maintaining the broader naval blockade.

At the weekly media briefing, FO spokesman Tahir Andrabi said Isla­mabad expected an agreement “soo­­ner rather than later”. “We remain optimistic. A simple answer would be that we expect an agreement sooner rather than later,” he said.

“We hope that the parties will come to a peaceful, sustainable solution and bring peace, not just to our region but internationally as well.”

Without discussing specifics of the negotiations, Mr Andrabi said Pakistan’s focus remained on securing a peaceful settlement rather than debating the causes of the conflict.

“In diplomacy, there is no standard metric system evolved which would say how close or how far we are from a settlement,” he remarked when asked how close the two sides were to reaching an agreement. “What I can tell you is that we remain positive.”

Officials familiar with the talks described the emerging framework as an attempt to convert the fragile ceasefire into a structured political process after nearly 10 weeks of confrontation that disrupted regional stability and global energy markets.

Pakistan has remained central to the diplomatic channel since hosting the first direct US-Iran engagement in Islamabad last month. Although that round ended without agreement, it established a continuing backchannel that Islamabad has since tried to preserve through sustained contacts with both sides and regional powers, including China, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye.

Diplomats said the current effort reflected a broader recognition am­­ong all parties that neither prolonged confrontation nor indefinite blockade conditions were sustainable, even though distrust between Washi­ngton and Tehran remained deep.

Published in Dawn, May 8th, 2026

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, with the regional situation and Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts coming under discussion, the Foreign Office (FO) said on Monday.

“Discussion focused on the regional situation and Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts for peace and stability in the region,” the FO said, adding that the call took place late Sunday night.

It added that the Iranian foreign minister appreciated Pakistan for its “constructive role and sincere mediation efforts between the parties”.

The FO said that Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s continued commitment to promoting constructive engagement and underscored that “dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path toward the peaceful resolution of issues and achieving lasting peace and stability in the region and beyond”.

The development comes after Tehran said on Sunday that the United States had responded to its new peace proposal. Iranian state media said Washington had conveyed its response to Iran’s 14-point proposal via Pakistan, and that Tehran was now reviewing it.

Subsequently, US President Donald Trump said that his representatives were having “very positive discussions” with Iran that could “lead to something very positive for all”.

Negotiations between the US and Iran had been deadlocked since a ceasefire, brokered by Pakistan, came into effect on April 8, with only one round of direct peace talks held in Islamabad so far.

US news website Axios reported, citing two sources briefed on the proposal, that it set “a one-month deadline for negotiations on a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, end the US naval blockade and permanently end the war in Iran and in Lebanon”.

Separately, Al Jazeera reported, citing sources, that the proposal envisaged three main stages, aiming to “transform the ceasefire into an end to the war within 30 days”.

According to the report, the proposal “envisions a pledge of nonaggression, including from Israel, to ensure there’s no return to war and an end to fighting throughout the Middle East”.

It said the proposal suggested the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz in the first phase, as well as lifting the US blockade of Iranian ports.

Under the proposed plan, Tehran would take charge of dealing with sea mines, the report said.

It added that the second phase was proposed to include “Iran’s return to uranium enrichment after the time limit at 3.6 per cent in accordance with the ‘zero-storage principle’“.

Moreover, the plan includes the US and Israel refraining from attacking Iran and its allies in exchange for Iran refraining from launching strikes, the report said, adding that Iran had also rejected “dismantling nuclear infrastructure or destroying Iran’s facilities”.

“Lifting sanctions includes the gradual release of frozen funds,” it said.

In the third phase, Tehran proposed to enter “into a strategic dialogue with Arab neighbours and building a security system that includes the entire Middle East”, the report stated.

Iranian sailors, who had been evacuated to Pakistan after being released by the United States, crossed the border and entered their home territory on Monday, reported Iranian state media.

According to IRNA, 15 of the 22 sailors crossed through the Rimdan border terminal in Sistan-Baluchistan.

Earlier, the Foreign Office (FO) said that as a “confidence-building measure” by the US, 22 crew members on an Iranian ship seized by US forces had been evacuated to Pakistan.

The statement came hours after American outlet ABC News reported that an Iranian ship seized by the US after it “failed to comply” with the blockade imposed by the country on Iranian ports had been transferred to Pakistan for repatriation.

“US forces completed the transfer of 22 crew members of M/V Touska to Pakistan for repatriation,“ the report quoted US Central Command Spokesperson Captain Tim Hawkins as saying.

“Six other passengers were already transferred to a regional country for repatriation last week,” he said. According to the report, Iranian state media identified the six as family members of some of the crew.

“Custody of Touska is currently being transferred back to its original ownership after the ship was intercepted and seized when attempting to violate the US naval blockade against Iran last month,” Hawkins said.

Subsequently, FO Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said on the social media platform X, “As a confidence-building measure by the United States of America, twenty-two crew members held aboard the seized Iranian container ship, ‘MV Touska’, have been evacuated to Pakistan.”

“The individuals, who were flown to Pakistan last night, will be handed over to the Iranian authorities today,” he said.

“The Iranian ship will also be backloaded to Pakistani territorial waters for return to its original owners after necessary repairs,” Andrabi said, adding that these returns were being coordinated in tandem with the support of both sides.

“Pakistan welcomes such confidence-building measures and will continue to facilitate dialogue and diplomacy while pursuing ongoing mediation efforts for regional peace and security,” he said.

Reiterating the details on X, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar observed that the developments “surely constitute an important confidence-building measure”.

Expressing Pakistan’s appreciation to the US and Iran, Dar affirmed that Islamabad remained “committed to facilitating dialogue, diplomacy, and mediation for the regional peace and security”.

The ship was boarded and seized by US forces on April 19. The small container ship, which was part of the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) group that has been hit with US sanctions, was boarded off the coast of Iran’s Chabahar port in the Gulf of Oman.

At the time, the US Central Command said the ship’s crew “failed to comply with repeated warnings over a six-hour period”.

“American forces issued multiple warnings and informed the Iranian-flagged vessel it was in violation of the US blockade,” it said.

Iran’s foreign ministry had condemned the incident as “unlawful and a violation” of international law and demanded the immediate release of the vessel, its sailors and their families. Iran’s military had said the ship had been travelling from China and accused ​the US of “armed piracy”.

Hormuz, a key shipping lane off the coast of Iran, has been virtually blocked by Tehran since the United States and Israel started bombing Iran on February 28.

Some vessels attempting to transit the Strait have reported being fired on, and Iran seized several other ships. Last month, the US imposed its own blockade of ships from Iranian ports.

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that the country would start helping free ships stranded in the Gulf.

Trump provided few details about the plan, dubbed “Operation Freedom”, which he said would start on Monday to aid ships and their crews that have been “locked up” in the vital waterway and are running low on food and other supplies.

“We have told these Countries that we will guide their Ships safely out of these restricted Waterways, so that they can freely and ably get on with their business,” Trump said in a post on his Truth Social site.

Hundreds of ships and as many as 20,000 seafarers have been unable to transit the strait during the conflict, according to the International Maritime Organisation.

US Central Command said it would support the effort with 15,000 US military personnel, more than 100 land and sea-based aircraft along with warships and drones. The operation aims to “restore freedom of navigation for commercial shipping” through the strait, it said in a statement.

In response to Trump’s announcement, a senior Iranian official warned on Monday that Tehran would consider any US attempt to interfere in the Strait of Hormuz a breach of the ongoing ceasefire.

“Any American interference in the new maritime regime of the Strait of Hormuz will be considered a violation of the ceasefire,” Ebrahim Azizi, head of the national security commission in Iran’s parliament, posted on X.

PAKISTAN’S role as a mediator in the US-Iran conflict has placed it at the forefront of diplomatic efforts, prompting many to recognise the country as a middle power. This delicate balancing act in conflict resolution has garnered international acclaim for Pakistan. However, concerns arise regarding the sustainability of this prominent position, given entrenched geopolitical fault lines.

In an increasingly fractured world order and the emergence of multilateralism, the role of middle powers has become more significant in the resolution of conflicts. However, this task is complicated when powerful countries use military force without regard for international laws. The illegal US-Israel war on Iran serves as a pertinent example. Nevertheless, the warring parties still require some form of mediation or facilitation to end the conflict.

Pakistan is ideally positioned for that role. It has close relations with both the US and Iran and has not been directly or indirectly involved in the conflict. It has also enjoyed the confidence of regional countries in the situation. Bringing Iran and the US to the negotiating table was certainly a challenging task.

In recent years, several countries have acted as facilitators in peace talks during conflicts. However, Pakistan has been far more deeply involved as an interlocutor in its efforts to resolve a most complicated and volatile situation. There is, though, still the question of whether playing this intricate role qualifies Pakistan as a middle power as other criteria may be necessary to fit that definition.

No doubt, it’s a feel-good moment, but it should not divert our focus from critical national challenges.

There are differing views on what constitutes a middle power. The most common description defines it as a state that possesses enough influence and clout to play an important role in international affairs without being a dominant world power. The role of middle powers has become increasingly relevant in a multipolar world. These nations gain influence not only through their diplomatic standing but also their economic strength.

Pakistan’s geostrategic position and status as a nuclear power indeed make it a formidable military force in the region; however, its weak economy and internal security issues undermine its position. These vulnerabilities were overlooked while we revelled in our newfound diplomatic glory. Amid our efforts to resolve perhaps the most consequential conflict in recent history, we faced an economic emergency when the UAE withdrew its $3.5 billion deposit from the State Bank. The crisis was resolved only after Saudi Arabia came to our rescue.

Meanwhile, the military stand-off on our western border with Afghanistan and the resurgence of violent militancy in two strategically located provinces has highlighted serious challenges at a time when Pakistan was trying to mediate in a conflict of global significance. The paradox could not be more evident. It also raises questions about the recognition as a middle power.

It may be the first time that Pakistan is playing a high-profile role as a peacemaker. It should be remembered the country has taken international centre stage as a front-line state in major global conflicts primarily due to its geostrategic position. The Afghan war against the Soviet Union in the 1980s and America’s two-decade war in Afghanistan post 9/11 positioned Pakistan as an important Western ally and regional player. But being in the international limelight diverted our attention from critical domestic issues, leaving the country economically and politically more unstable each time.

The flow of financial and military aid has made us dependent on external support in the absence of economic and social reforms at home. Each war has resulted in the strengthening of authoritarian forces. We fail to learn any lessons from our own history as we revel in fleeting moments of international glory.

This is exactly what is happening now, as we congratulate ourselves over the global appreciation of our efforts. While we should not underestimate our diplomatic achievements, we must avoid exaggerating their success. It is, no doubt, a feel-good moment for the country, but it should not be overplayed as an example of Pakistan’s emergence in the big power league, nor should it divert our attention from the critical challenges we face.

Highlighting every comment made by US President Donald Trump, the man responsible for unleashing a brutal war, does not bode well for the country’s image, especially when he eulogises security and civilian leaders. The world hardly takes him seriously due to his ever-changing stance. In fact, his effusive comments risk undermining Pakistan’s position as a neutral peace broker.

There is now much talk about Pakistan’s potential role as a ‘net security provider’ in the region after the US-Iran conflict. This is a dangerous proposition, as it risks overstretching Pakistan’s defence capabilities and involving the country in regional conflicts. This is the last thing the state should aspire to, given that it faces serious internal and external security challenges. Pakistan needs to focus entirely on economic stability rather than becoming a regional security provider.

As a developing nation, it must brace itself for the spillover effects of the war. A net importer of energy, Pakistan is among the countries worst affected by the economic fallout of the conflict. Rising energy prices have already had inflationary effects, pushing more people below the poverty line.

The country will also be directly impacted by political upheaval and shifting regional power dynamics. It is certainly in Pakistan’s best interest to play a role in ending the war but to avoid becoming involved in any regional conflict as a net security provider. The conclusion of the war and the changing political and security landscape of the Middle East are likely to present some economic opportunities for Pakistan. Unfortunately, with weak fundamentals, the country may not be prepared to take advantage of these opportunities.

To truly become a middle power, Pakistan needs to fully concentrate on building its economy and achieving political stability, following Deng Xiaoping’s famous saying: “Hide your strength and bide your time.”

The writer is an author and journalist.

zhussain100@yahoo.com

X: @hidhussain

Published in Dawn, April 29th, 2026

UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan told the United Nations Security Council on Monday that it remains firmly committed to a peaceful resolution of the escalating Iran-United States conflict, warning that the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz could trigger severe global economic and security consequences.

Speaking at a high-level UNSC debate on “The Safety and Protection of Waterways in the Maritime Domain”, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative Asim Iftikhar Ahmad underscored the urgent need to restore maritime stability and ensure uninterrupted global trade flows.

“Any disruptions to the routine traffic at sea gravely impact international trade with negative repercussions for global economy, and breed volatility that imperils international peace and security,” Ambassador Ahmad said, pointing to the Strait of Hormuz crisis as “a case in point”.

He cautioned that if the crisis persists, its immediate effects on energy supplies and essential commodities would ripple outward. “The first order impacts… will increasingly translate into second and third order impacts on inflation, growth, current account and balance of payment issues — no doubt, developing countries will be most affected,” he warned.

Pakistan has emerged as an active diplomatic interlocutor in recent weeks, maintaining contacts with both Tehran and Washington while coordinating with key regional actors.

Officials say Islamabad has leveraged its ties with Gulf states as well as its strategic partnership with China to encourage de-escalation and explore pathways for reopening the critical waterway.

Ambassador Ahmad highlighted these efforts at the council, noting that “Pakistan, supported by brotherly countries including China, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Egypt, has spearheaded constructive diplomatic efforts for de-escalation and the broader pursuit of stability between the United States and Iran.”

He reiterated Islamabad’s commitment to dialogue, adding that “Pakistan remains firm in its faith in diplomacy and dialogue, and will continue to resolutely undertake all possible measures” to help secure an enduring resolution.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil shipments passes, has remained effectively closed amid rising hostilities, raising alarm across global markets and prompting calls for urgent international intervention.

In his remarks, the Pakistani envoy stressed that the crisis has exposed deeper vulnerabilities in the global system. “These developments have brought home the point that resilience of global governance architecture and strategic stability are now being tested by the safety and openness of maritime waterways,” he said.

He also warned that the erosion of established norms governing international waters could have far-reaching consequences. “The rules and norms that we had collectively and painstakingly put in place… are being challenged or set aside. This is an untenable situation,” he told the council.

Pakistan’s diplomatic push comes amid intensifying international concern over the risk of a broader regional conflict. Diplomats note that Islamabad has quietly facilitated contacts, including recent engagements involving Iran’s foreign minister and regional capitals, reflecting a renewed but cautious diplomatic opening.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s broader position, Ambassador Ahmad emphasised the importance of international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, as a cornerstone of maritime order, and called for collective action anchored in cooperation and dialogue.

“As a maritime state with unwavering faith in international law and diplomacy, Pakistan would continue to engage … for preserving the hard-won gains — both in the gentle tides of peace and amity, and amid the rising storms of conflict,” he said.

He concluded with a call for unity, urging the international community to act decisively: “This is a sacred trust that history has placed upon us, and we cannot afford to fail. We must succeed, together.”

Iran, US clash at UN nuclear conference

The US and Iran traded sharp remarks over Tehran’s nuclear programme at the opening of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) review conference at the UN headquarters in New York City on Monday.

The disagreement is expected to continue through the four-week meeting, with discussions focusing on Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile — its size, location and future disposition.

The conference will also consider Iran’s election as one of 34 vice-presidents. Tehran was nominated by the Non-Aligned Movement.

Diplomatic sources at the UN told Dawn the US opposed the move, supported by Australia and the United Arab Emirates, while the United Kingdom, France and Germany expressed concern. Russia objected to singling out Iran.

The US delegation informed the meeting that Washington was “deeply shocked” that a country it accused of showing “contempt” for the treaty had been elected vice-president.

Iran’s ambassador to the IAEA in Vienna, Reza Najafi, rejected the US statement as “baseless and politically motivated”.

NPT review conferences are held every five years to assess implementation of the treaty, which aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote disarmament. A UN document released on Monday noted that, despite extensive consultations, recent review conferences have failed to agree on a substantive final document.

On February 27, Badr Albusaidi, who had been mediating between Washington and Tehran, said Iran had agreed to “zero accumulation”, “zero stockpiling” and full verification of its existing stockpile by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

However, hours later, US and Israeli strikes began.

The NPT, along with the 2015 nuclear agreement — the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action — which Washington abandoned in 2018, was intended to prevent such escalation.

Critics argue that the justification advanced by Washington and its allies — that Iran must not be allowed to pursue a nuclear programme — has drawn accusations of double standards, as Israel is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons but is not a signatory to the treaty.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Monday said he discussed with “friends in Pakistan” the “path and conditions” under which Tehran could continue its dialogue with Washington during his recent visit to Islamabad.

After visiting Pakistan twice in two days and making a trip to Oman in between, Araghchi arrived in Russia on Monday as part of his regional tour.

In a statement issued on his Telegram account, the Iranian FM provided an overview of his diplomatic engagements over the past few days.

Terming his trips to Islamabad and Muscat as “bilateral”, Araghchi said: “As for Pakistan, this country has recently played an important role in mediating the negotiations between Iran and the United States, and it was necessary for us to discuss the latest developments.

“However, there have been developments in the negotiations, and the wrong approaches and excessive demands of the United States have prevented the previous round of negotiations from achieving their goals despite the progress. Therefore, it was necessary to consult and review the current situation with our friends in Pakistan,” he added.

The minister recalled that the Iranian side had “good consultations with our friends in Pakistan, which, thank God, was a very successful trip”.

“We reviewed what has happened and talked about the path and conditions under which the negotiations can continue,” Araghchi stated.

He asserted that “40 days of heroic resistance of the Iranian people should enable us to secure the rights of the Iranian people, their independence, and the interests of the country”.

About Oman, Araghchi noted it was a “friendly and close country” to Iran, hailing Muscat’s “very good positions” during the Middle East conflict.

“It was necessary for us to have a meeting to establish broader relations with our neighbours, especially in the Persian Gulf, so that we could manage the existing problems,” he emphasised.

He highlighted it was “necessary to have consultations” regarding the Strait of Hormuz as Iran and Oman were the two coastal countries on the key waterway.

“Safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz is an important and global issue, and we and Oman, as two countries overlooking this strait, need to have close coordination to ensure common interests. In any action taken in this regard, the interests of Iran and Oman are directly involved,” Araghchi stated.

He noted there was a “lot of common ground” between Iran and Oman, adding that the two sides have agreed to continue consultations at expert levels.

On Russia, the minister observed Iran had “always had close consultations with Russia and have had continuous and bilateral consultations on a wide range of issues, especially regional issues”.

“For a while, there was a gap in meetings due to the imposed Ramazan war. We took advantage of this opportunity and, in continuation of my trips to Pakistan and Oman, a trip to Russia was also arranged,” he said.

Araghchi said the visit to Russia would aim to consult “with our Russian friends about the developments related to the war during this period and the current situation, and to review the latest situation”. “It is natural that the necessary coordination must also be made.”

Araghchi arrived in Saint Petersburg on Monday, the Iranian Foreign Ministry said on Telegram.

The Iranian FM held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the visit and told him he hoped the Iranian people would weather what he described as a “difficult period” and that peace would soon prevail.

According to Russian state media, Putin told Araghchi that “we will do everything that serves your interests and the interests of all the peoples of the region to ensure that peace is achieved as quickly as possible”.

“Last week I received a message from Iran’s supreme leader. I would like to ask you to convey my most sincere thanks for this and to confirm that Russia, like Iran, intends to continue our strategic relationship,” Putin added.

For his part, Araghchi said relations between Russia and Iran would continue to strengthen and thanked Putin for Moscow’s support, the Russian state media reported.

Mediators have pushed to keep peace efforts between Tehran and Washington alive, following a flurry of regional diplomacy and the collapse of planned talks in Pakistan.

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump scrapped a planned trip to Islamabad by his envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

A day ago, Trump reiterated that talks with Iran would be held remotely and commended Pakistan, saying that Islamabad would “stay involved” in the process.

In a sign that efforts were ongoing, the Fars news agency said Iran had sent “written messages” to the Americans via mediator Pakistan outlining red lines, including nuclear issues and the Strait of Hormuz.

Fars said the messages were not part of formal negotiations, however.

US media outlet Axios reported on Sunday that Iran had sent a new proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the war, with nuclear negotiations postponed for a later stage, citing a US official and two other sources with knowledge of the matter.

Iranian state news agency IRNA cited the report without denying it.

A ceasefire in the US-Israeli war with Iran has so far held, but its economic shockwaves have continued to reverberate globally.

Iran has sealed off the strait, cutting flows of oil, gas and fertiliser and sending prices soaring, raising fears of food insecurity in developing countries. At the same time, a US blockade of the strait is in place.

Hopes for a second round of talks in Pakistan had centred on the planned visit by Witkoff and Kushner, but Trump cancelled the trip after Iranian state television said Araghchi had no plans to meet US officials there.

On Sunday, Trump told Fox News that if Iran wanted the talks, “they can come to us, or they can call us”.

Trump faces domestic pressure as fuel prices rise following Iran’s closure of Hormuz, with midterm elections due in November. Polls show the war is unpopular among Americans.

Safe transit

Asked whether cancelling signalled renewed fighting, Trump said: “No, it doesn’t mean that.”

On Saturday, Araghchi met Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, before travelling to Oman and returning to Islamabad.

Araghchi himself posted on X that the talks in Oman had focused on ensuring safe transit through Hormuz, “to benefit of all dear neighbours and the world”.

“Our neighbours are our priority,” he added.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they had no intention of lifting their blockade, which has roiled energy markets.

“Controlling the Strait of Hormuz and maintaining the shadow of its deterrent effects over America and the White House’s supporters in the region is the definitive strategy of Islamic Iran,” the Guards said on their official Telegram channel.

The US has imposed a blockade of Iranian ports in retaliation.

Additional input from Reuters

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has notified six routes for the transportation of goods to Iran against an encashable bank guarantee amid reports that thousands of containers destined for Iran are awaiting clearance at Pakistani ports.

For this to come into force, the Ministry of Commerce has issued a statutory regulatory order, Transit of Goods through Territory of Pakistan Order 2026.

According to the order, following routes have been designated for the transit of goods:

• Gwadar-Gabd
• Karachi/ Port Qasim-Lyari-Ormara-Pasni-Gabd
• Karachi/ Port Qasim- Khuzdar-Dalbandin-Taftan
• Gawadar-Turbat-Hoshab-Panjgur-Nagg-Besima-Khuzdar-Quetta/ Lakpass-Dalbandin-Nokundi-Taftan
• Gwadar-Liari-Khuzdar-Quetta/ Lakpass-Dalbandin-Nokundi-Taftan
• Karachi/ Port Qasim -Gwadar- Gabd

Meanwhile, it has been reported that more than 3,000 containers destined for Iran have been stuck at the Karachi port for the past few days. This has been reported as the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz — which was the route for one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply in peacetime — and that of Iranian ports continues amid a conflict between the US and Iran.

The conflict, which had begun with US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, is paused for now as a ceasefire remains effective.

The Ministry of Commerce said in its order that the transportation of cargo under the notification shall be regulated in accordance with the provisions of the Customs Act, 1969, the rules made thereunder, and the procedure prescribed by the Federal Board of Revenue.

The order “shall apply to the transportation of transit goods in transport units, consigned from the territory of a third country and destined to a place in the territory of Iran through the territory of Pakistan”.

It has been issued in pursuance of Article 2 of the Agreement between the government of Pakistan and the government of Iran on International Transport of Passengers and Goods by Road executed in June 2008, and in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 3 of the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, 1950, the ministry said.

The order has come into force with effect from April 25.

Under the order, the transportation of goods has been defined as cross-stuffing, which means the transfer of goods from one container to another container or by any other mode of transportation that shall be allowed in a mode and manner allowed under relevant Customs laws and regulations.

It further defines Customs Security as an encashable financial guarantee, submitted by the traders or through their authorised brokers on transit goods, for an amount equivalent to the import levies of Pakistan, as provided in relevant Customs laws, rules and regulations.

A shipper under the order means any natural or legal person by whom or in whose name a contract of carriage of goods has been concluded with a carrier, or any person by whom or in whose name the goods are actually delivered to the carrier in relation to the contract of carriage of goods.

Under the order, transit has been defined as the movement of goods in transit across the territory of Pakistan when the passage across such territory is only a portion of a complete journey, which begins and ends beyond the borders of Pakistan. Moreover, a transit transport corridor has been explained as a route for use by a carrier for the transit of goods.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was to head to Moscow on Sunday after a short stay in Pakistan, where he landed for a second time in two days following a trip to Oman as part of his tri-nation tour, a diplomatic source told Dawn.

He is undertaking the trip against the backdrop of ongoing diplomatic efforts, notably by Pakistan, to bring Tehran and Washington to the table to talks aimed at ending the conflict that began with US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.

The source said Araghchi arrived at the Nur Khan air base in Rawalpindi after completing a day-long visit to Oman, adding that he would meet with senior Pakistani officials during his short stay in Islamabad.

The Iranian foreign minister would then depart for Moscow, the source added.

In a late-night post on X, Iranian envoy to Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghadam confirmed the end of Araghchi’s second trip to Pakistan.

“At the end of this round of the visit of the Iranian delegation, Abbas Araghchi, the minister of foreign affairs, to Pakistan … which was carried out with the aim of reviewing bilateral relations and consulting on the issue of regional developments, I would like to express my sincere and wholehearted gratitude and appreciation to the government, army and people of Pakistan, especially Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, for their tireless efforts and good office initiative to end the war and bring lasting peace to the region.

“Like the previous round, this round was held in complete security, safety and tranquillity for the delegation, achieved with the competent and perfect management, thoughtful planning and successful implementation by the brotherly, friendly and neighbouring country of Pakistan.

“Here, I express my sincere gratitude to the army staffs, security forces, police, employees of all executive institutions and especially the honourable people of Pakistan and Islamabad residents, for their patience, hospitality and cooperative synergy during this period. Iran-Pakistan Friendship Zindabad (long live).”

Meeting with Oman’s sultan

Earlier in Oman, Araghchi met with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq and briefed him “on the Iranian side’s perspectives” regarding the regional developments and the peace efforts, Oman’s foreign ministry said in a statement on X.

Araghchi “listened to His Majesty’s views on ways to advance these efforts in a manner that enhances opportunities for reaching sustainable political solutions and limits the repercussions of crises on the peoples of the region”, the statement said.

It added that the sultan affirmed the importance of prioritising the language of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing issues, in a way that contributed to consolidating the foundations of peace.

Araghchi expressed Iran’s appreciation for Oman’s positions in “supporting dialogue efforts and enhancing endeavours for security and stability in the region, especially amid the current regional challenges”, the statement said.

Separately, Iran’s foreign ministry said in a statement that the security in the Strait of Hormuz and broader Gulf waters and diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israeli war on Iran were discussed during the meeting.

It quoted Araghchi as saying the US military presence in the Middle East was fuelling insecurity and division. It said he called for a regional security framework free of outside interference during the meeting.

Separately, Iranian state broadcaster IRIB reported that he also held a phone call with his Saudi counterpart, Faisal bin Farhan, and discussed regional developments and ongoing diplomatic processes.

Later, state-run news agency IRNA reported that he also held a phone call with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and exchanged views on the “latest regional developments and ongoing diplomatic efforts”.

Araghchi hands over Iran’s proposals

Araghchi earlier arrived in Islamabad on Friday night and handed over Tehran’s response to US proposals for ending the war during meetings with Pakistan’s civil and military leadership before leaving for Oman on Saturday.

He departed for Muscat after a day of intensive consultations, reportedly abo­ard a Gulfstream G600 owned by the Pakistan military. Neither the Pakistani military nor the Iranian officials confirmed or denied this. This suggested Pakistani facilitation of his regional tour to find a diplomatic solution to the conflict.

A Pakistani source involved in the process said the Iranian side had delivered both its proposals and its perspective on the American proposals. Sources said Iran emphasised its terms while indicating readiness to remain engaged in shaping a future diplomatic course.

Officials familiar with the discussions said Tehran stressed that any framework must be “rational and fair” and maintained that negotiations cannot proceed under pressure, particularly in the presence of the naval blockade of Iranian ports by the US. At the same time, the Iranian side signalled willingness to stay engaged through Pakistan’s mediation but insisted that it would not accept terms seen as undermining its sovereignty or security interests.

No details of the proposals were made public.

The visit unfolded amid indications earlier from Washington that Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner would travel to Islamabad to engage with the Iranian delegation. However, as Araghchi departed for Moscow, US President Donald Trump called off the trip.

Impasse in talks

Pakistan’s civil and military leadership has been engaged in feverish diplomacy, seeking to bring the US and Iran back to the negotiating table after the first round of talks in Islamabad yielded no result.

The first round of historic direct US-Iran talks was held in Islamabad on April 11 and 12, following a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire on April 8. It had ended without an agreement, but also without a breakdown.

However, the expected second round of negotiations witnessed a delay due to continued friction between the US and Iran, particularly regarding Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the US blockade of Iran’s ports.

Meanwhile, Trump has announced an extension in the ceasefire until Tehran submits a “unified proposal” and “discussions are concluded, one way or the other”.

The US has, however, maintained its blockade of Iranian ports.

On the other hand, the Strait of Hormuz — through which one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply used to pass during peacetime — also remains blocked.

After the US and Israel attacked Iran on Feb 28, Tehran responded by shutting down the strait and later announced it would charge vessels using the maritime route. The US earlier this month blockaded Iranian ports to stop its oil exports and returned over 30 ships leaving Iranian ports.

Unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as one of the issues at the core of the impasse between the US and Iran. Another point of contention is Washington’s demand for long-term commitments on Iran’s nuclear programme, including constraints on enrichment and safeguards against weaponisation.

Additional input from Reuters

Hours after an Iranian delegation departed Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and said that Pakistan was committed to serving as an “honest and sincere facilitator”.

In a post on the social media platform X, PM Shehbaz said that he had a “warm and constructive” call with the Iranian president on the evolving regional situation.

“I appreciated Iran’s continued engagement, including the high-level delegation to Islamabad led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, whom I had the pleasure of meeting earlier today,” he said.

“I reaffirmed that, with the support of friends and partners, Pakistan remains committed to [serving] as an honest and sincere facilitator — working tirelessly to advance durable peace and lasting stability in the region,” he said.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the phone call lasted 50 minutes, with the two leaders exchanging views on the “current regional situation and ongoing efforts to promote peace and stability in the region”.

It said that PM Shehbaz appreciated the participation of the high-level Iranian delegation in the Islamabad Talks held on April 11 and 12.

Further, the prime minister also welcomed Iran’s decision to send a delegation led by FM Araghchi to Islamabad.

“While sharing with the Iranian president an overview of his recent diplomatic outreach to a number of world leaders, the prime minister emphasised that these interactions had been helpful in building broader consensus in support of sustained dialogue and diplomacy aimed at achieving lasting peace in the war-affected region,” the PMO said.

It further said that the prime minister expressed appreciation for the fruitful discussions by the Iranian leadership with Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Munir during his recent visit to Tehran.

“While reassuring the Iranian president of Pakistan’s firm commitment to regional peace, the prime minister said that Pakistan would continue its sincere and honest endeavours to promote regional peace and security,” the statement said.

It added that Pezeshkian thanked the prime minister, CDF Munir and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar for their “significant contribution to the peace efforts”.

“While expressing Iran’s desire for peace, he also expressed confidence that the fraternal ties between Iran and Pakistan will continue to strengthen and expand in the future,” the statement said.

It added that the prime minister also conveyed his greetings and regards to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.

“Both leaders agreed to continue their close coordination,” the statement concluded.

The first round of direct talks between the US and Iran was held in Islamabad on April 11 and 12, which ended after more than 20 hours without agreement but kept the diplomatic channel open.

Since then, exchanges have continued indirectly through Pakistan, with both sides calibrating positions while avoiding a formal breakdown.

The ceasefire, originally brokered around April 7 and 8, has been extended without a defined timeline, creating space for diplomacy but also prolonging uncertainty.

An Iranian delegation led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi left Islamabad on Saturday after meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir.

However, Iranian state media said Araghchi will head back to Pakistan after visiting Oman.

The IRNA news agency, citing the foreign ministry, reported that Araghchi “is scheduled to visit Pakistan again after completing his trip to Oman and before travelling to Russia”.

Part of his delegation had returned to Tehran, it added, “to consult and obtain the necessary instructions on issues related to ending the war, and is scheduled to rejoin Araghchi in Islamabad on Sunday night”.

At the same time, US President Donald Trump cancelled the visit of US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who were expected to depart for Pakistan later in the day for talks with Iran.

Araghchi’s meetings

The Iranian foreign minister termed his visit to Pakistan “very fruitful”. In a post on X, he said, “Very fruitful visit to Pakistan, whose good offices and brotherly efforts to bring back peace to our region we very much value.

“Shared Iran’s position concerning a workable framework to permanently end the war on Iran. Have yet to see if the US is truly serious about diplomacy,” he said.

A Pakistani source told Reuters that Araghchi delivered Tehran’s negotiating demands, as well as its reservations about US demands, to Pakistani officials.

Araqchi “explained our country’s principled positions regarding the latest developments related to the ceasefire and the complete end of the imposed war against Iran”, said a statement on the minister’s official Telegram account.

“Regional developments and bilateral ties came under discussion,” state-run Pakistan TV reported about Araghchi’s meeting with the premier.

CDF Munir, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Iran’s Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam were also present during the meeting held at the Prime Minister’s House.

PM Shehbaz called the meeting a “most warm, cordial exchange of views on the current regional situation”.

“We also discussed matters of mutual interest, including the further strengthening of Pakistan–Iran bilateral relations,” he said.

Dar said that the meeting lasted “approximately two hours”.

“The prime minister emphasised on the importance of dialogue and diplomacy for peace and stability in the region and beyond,” he said.

Earlier in the day, Araghchi held a separate meeting with CDF Munir.

“Matters of mutual interest and the overall regional situation were discussed,” state-run Pakistan TV reported about the meeting.

Trump cancels US envoys’ visit

Hours after Araghchi departed the federal capital, the US president told Fox News he had cancelled a planned trip to Pakistan by envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff for peace talks with Iran.

“I’ve told my people a little while ago they were getting ready to leave, and I said, ‘Nope, you’re not making an 18-hour flight to go there. We have all the cards. They can call us anytime they want, but you’re not going to be making any more 18-hour flights to sit around talking about nothing,’” Fox News reported the president as saying in a phone call.

Asked whether the cancellation meant he would resume the war, Trump told Axios: “No. It doesn’t mean that. We haven’t thought about it yet.”

Subsequently, he posted on his Truth Social platform, reiterating that the visit had been cancelled.

“Too much time wasted on traveling, too much work! Besides which, there is tremendous infighting and confusion within their ‘leadership.’ Nobody knows who is in charge, including them. Also, we have all the cards, they have none! If they want to talk, all they have to do is call!!!”

Later, Trump told reporters in Florida that he decided to call off the visit because it involved too much travel and expense, and Iran’s latest peace offer was not good enough for him.

Before boarding Air Force One for a return flight to Washington, Trump said Iran had improved an offer to resolve the conflict after he cancelled the visit, “but not enough”.

“I think Pakistan is terrific and the field marshal is fantastic. I think the prime minister of Pakistan’s great, and they’d like to see something happen,” Trump told reporters.

“But we’re not going to be travelling 15, 16 hours to have a meeting with people that nobody’s ever heard of,” he said.

Pakistan’s diplomatic push

Araghchi arrived in Islamabad late on Friday as renewed diplomatic activity gathered pace. He was received by Deputy PM Dar and CDF Munir.

Ahead of the visit, he had held separate telephone conversations with Dar and CDF Munir, focusing on the cea­sefire and the diplomatic track.

The visit comes at a delicate moment in the US-Iran standoff, with a fragile, indefinitely extended ceasefire holding on paper, while core disputes over the naval blockade, nuclear restrictions and sequ­encing of concessions remain unresolved.

“The purpose of my visits is to closely coordinate with our partners on bilateral matters and consult on regional developments. Our neighbours are our priority,” Araghchi said in a post on X before departing Tehran for his three-country tour, which also includes stops in Oman and Russia.

In his statement, Baqaei clarified, “No meeting is planned to take place between Iran and the US. Iran’s observations would be conveyed to Pakistan.”

He said Araghchi would meet with Pakistani “high-level officials in concert with their ongoing mediation and good offices for ending American-imposed war of aggression” and the restoration of peace in the region.

The first round of direct talks between the US and Iran was held in Islamabad on April 11 and 12, which ended after more than 20 hours without agreement but kept the diplomatic channel open.

Since then, exchanges have continued indirectly through Pakistan, with both sides calibrating positions while avoiding a formal breakdown.

The ceasefire, originally brokered around April 7 and 8, has been extended without a defined timeline, creating space for diplomacy but also prolonging uncertainty.

Officials in Islamabad described the situation as fluid, with mediation efforts focused on bridging the sequencing gap between US demands and Iranian preconditions.

The high security measures were in place in Islamabad for the arrival of foreign delegations, even as mixed signals emerged from Iran amid intensifying tensions with the United States.

Iran has said it has not yet decided on attending a new round of negotiations with the US, while President Donald Trump said on Sunday that a US delegation will be arriving in the federal capital “tomorrow evening”.

Despite this, security in Islamabad was on high alert on Monday, with the Red Zone sealed and public transport in the twin cities suspended.

Header image: Security personnel stand guard at a security checkpost ahead of anticipated US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad on April 20, 2026. — Reuters

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Monday held separate meetings with the Iranian and US envoys to discuss arrangements made for a second round of Islamabad Talks between the two warring parties.

Naqvi’s intensified efforts come as Islamabad continues to set the stage for a possible second round of negotiations between Washington and Tehran, after the first round ended without an agreement.

The Ministry of Interior issued separate press releases detailing Naqvi’s interactions with US Charge d’Affaires to Pakistan Natalie Baker and Iran’s Ambassador to Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghadam.

According to a statement issued later in the day, Naqvi discussed “arrangements for a second round of Islamabad Talks” with the Iranian envoy, telling him that the preparations for it were complete.

“Foolproof security arrangements have been made for foreign delegations,” Naqvi told Moghadam.

Iran said earlier on Monday that Tehran has yet to decide on whether to send its delegation, and there is no official confirmation so far that talks will be held.

“An emphasis [was placed] on the need for a sustainable solution through diplomatic and negotiation channels to reduce tensions,” the ministry noted.

“Pak-Iran relations span decades. We view [these] brotherly relations with an eye of esteem,” Naqvi was quoted as saying. He stated that Pakistan was in favour of “resolving the US-Iran conflict through negotiations”.

“The enduring solution to the conflict is the guarantor of the region’s stability and peace,” he emphasised.

Islamabad’s Chief Commissioner Sohail Ashraf, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ali Nasir Rizvi and Deputy Commissioner Irfan Memon were also present on the occasion.

Earlier in the day, Naqvi had met with Baker at the US Embassy in Islamabad’s Diplomatic Enclave, where the two discussed the latest regional situation and the promotion of Pakistan-US relations in detail, the ministry said.

US President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that representatives from Washington would be in Islamabad “tomorrow evening” for a second round of negotiations with Iran.

Naqvi informed Baker about the security measures taken for holding the talks, saying that “special security arrangements have been made for all our special guests”.

The ministry added that he was “praying for the success of the second round” of talks.

Meanwhile, the US envoy appreciated Pakistan’s sincere role in reducing tension in the region, according to the ministry.

Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Director General Dr Usman Anwar was present on the occasion, along with IG Rizvi, DC Memon and Ashraf.

Baker and Naqvi had also met to discuss “foolproof” security measures on April 9, two days before the US delegation landed in Pakistan for the first round of talks.

Islamabad police issue updated traffic plan

The Islamabad police issued an updated traffic plan ahead of the arrival of foreign delegations in the capital, announcing extensive road closures and diversions across key routes.

According to the plan, the Red Zone and Extended Red Zone will remain completely closed to all types of traffic. The Expressway from Koral to Zero Point will also be shut, while traffic on the Srinagar Highway may be suspended at various intervals.

Entry of heavy traffic into Islamabad from all directions will remain prohibited during the period, with authorities advising transporters to avoid travel towards the city to prevent inconvenience.

For city residents, alternative routes have been designated. Residents of G-5, G-6, G-7, F-6 and F-7 have been advised to use Ninth Avenue via Margalla Road for movement between Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Traffic from Faisal Avenue towards Zero Point will be diverted to Ninth Avenue.

In case of closure between Zero Point and Koral Chowk, commuters may use Ninth Avenue from Srinagar Highway, then proceed via Stadium Road, Murree Road, Chandni Chowk and Rawal Road to reach Koral.

If Park Road to Club Road is closed, traffic will be diverted towards Taramri Chowk. Residents travelling between Bara Kahu and Rawalpindi have been advised to use Korang Road and Bani Gala.

Similarly, commuters from Rawalpindi’s Saddar may use either Colonel Sher Khan Road to Faqir Appi Road or Ninth Avenue.

Heavy traffic between GT Road and Peshawar or Lahore will be routed via Taxila Motorway, Chakri Interchange, Chak Beli Road and Rawat GT Road, with reverse arrangements also in place.

The police have advised citizens to stay updated through their WhatsApp channel, social media pages and ITP FM 92.4.

Several motorways closed to public transport

Separately, various motorways leading to Islamabad from Lahore, Peshawar and Faisalabad were closed for public transport as part of security measures ahead of possible US-Iran talks in Islamabad.

However, the motorways remained open for those travelling by road in their personal vehicles, according to a spokesperson for the Lahore City district administration.

“Lahore-Islamabad motorway (M2) has been closed for public transport only for today in the wake of implementing instructions of the federal government authorities for the sake of ensuring foolproof security arrangements in Islamabad,” confirmed the spokesperson to Dawn.

“We have done this on the instructions of the federal government,” he reiterated, saying the development has been confirmed by the Lahore administration’s secretary, Road Transportation Authority.

According to another official, both M1 and M3 motorways from Lahore and Faisalabad, respectively, were also closed to public transport.

Security arrangements in Islamabad have kicked into overdrive to prepare for the potential second round of negotiations between the US and Iran, to be once again hosted in Islamabad.

Islamabad’s Red Zone was closed for traffic as the capital braced to welcome foreign delegations, police said on Sunday, with alternate traffic plans issued to facilitate citizens.

The historic first round of direct US-Iran talks, held in Islamabad on April 11 and 12, ended without an agreement but also without a breakdown.

US President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the talks days ago, but Washington and Tehran remain in a stand-off over the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran again closed the strait on Saturday, saying it would not reopen the maritime trade route until the US ended its blockade of Iranian ports.

The two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, brokered on April 8 after over a month of conflict, is set to expire on April 22.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday, reaffirming during the conversation that Pakistan would “remain fully committed to its honest and sincere efforts to advance regional peace and security”.

The conversation, which was detailed in a statement by the PM’s Office, took place after US President Donald Trump confirmed that American representatives were headed to Islamabad for another round of talks with Iran.

The first round of historic direct US-Iran talks, held in Islamabad on April 11 and 12, had ended without an agreement, but also without a breakdown.

The talks were held as a Pakistan-brokered two-week ceasefire between Washington and Tehran remained in effect. The ceasefire, which is set to end on April 22, paused hostilities that began with the US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.

The PMO statement said that during Shehbaz and Pezeshkian’s “warm and cordial conversation that lasted for around 45 minutes, the two leaders engaged in detailed exchanges on the current regional situation”.

The PM thanked Pezeshkian and the Iranian leadership for having sent their high-powered delegation, led by Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, for the first round of talks in Islamabad on 11-12 April, it said.

The statement further said that the premier informed the Iranian president about “his own recent engagements with a number of world leaders, including the leadership of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkiye”.

He said that these interactions were most helpful in building consensus in support of a sustained process of dialogue and diplomacy, aimed at bringing lasting peace to the war-ravaged region, the PMO statement added.

It said the PM also thanked the Iranian leadership for their “constructive conversations” with Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir during the latter’s visit to Tehran this week.

He reaffirmed that, “with the support of friends and partners, Pakistan would remain fully committed to its honest and sincere efforts to advance regional peace and security”, the statement read, adding that PM Shehbaz also conveyed his respectful regards for Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.

It said Pezeshkian thanked the prime minister and the Field Marshal for Pakistan’s strong commitment to the success of the peace efforts, while affirming that relations between Iran and Pakistan would continue to grow stronger in the days ahead.

Earlier in the day, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar spoke with Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi, the Foreign Office (FO) said.

It said that Dar “emphasised the need for continued dialogue and engagement as essential to resolving the current issues as soon as possible for promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond”.

“Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact and also concurred on a phone call” between Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian and PM Shehbaz Sharif later today, the FO said.

Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi have concluded a three-day official visit to Iran, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Saturday.

The discussions focused on “bringing sustainable peace to the region, with particular emphasis on the evolving regional security environment, ongoing diplomatic engagements, and collaborative measures aimed at promoting enduring peace and stability in the region”, the ISPR said in a statement.

Munir underscored the need for dialogue, de-escalation, and peaceful resolution of outstanding issues through sustained diplomatic engagements, it added.

During the visit, the field marshal called on Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and held separate meetings with Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and the commander of Khatamul Anbiya Headquarters, Major General Ali Abdollahi.

According to the ISPR statement, the CDF expressed deep appreciation for the “warm hospitality” extended by Iran during the delegation’s visit, and conveyed sincere regards and best wishes from the president, prime minister, and people of Pakistan to the Iranian leadership. He further reaffirmed Pakistan’s desire to further strengthen the historic and brotherly ties between the two countries.

“The visit reflects Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to facilitate a negotiated settlement to the Middle East conflict and to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region,” the statement said.

Pakistan’s mediation efforts

On Wednesday, the ISPR said that CDF Munir had arrived in Tehran alongside Naqvi and a formal delegation. It described the visit as part of “ongoing mediation efforts” for de-escalation between Iran and the US.

Pakistan hosted direct Iran-US talks in Islamabad earlier this month, marking the highest engagement between the two sides since 1979. The talks ended without an agreement despite nearly 21 hours of talks. While no breakthrough was achieved, both sides indicated that the diplomatic channel remained open.

The air force also escorted Iranian negotiators home from the inconclusive first round of Islamabad Talks to ensure the safety of the delegation.

The ceasefire between the US and Iran, brokered on April 8 after weeks of conflict, is set to expire on April 22. While technically intact, it is increasingly precarious.

On Monday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif told a meeting of the federal cabinet that “full efforts” were ongoing to resolve the conflict.

Noting that the truce was still holding, he said, “As I am talking to you, matters that are not resolved, full efforts are underway to resolve them.”

According to a communication received from Tehran through the interior ministry’s media wing, Iranian Interior Minister Eskender Momini on Friday lauded Pakistan’s efforts in achieving a ceasefire and its role in reconciliation in a conversation with Naqvi.

The air force escorted Iranian negotiators home from inconclusive peace talks with the United States last weekend, launching a major operation after the Iranians said Israel might seek to kill them, three sources told Reuters.

Pakistan deployed some two dozen jets in the escort, as well as the force’s Airborne Warning and Control System for aerial surveillance to ensure the safety of the delegation back from Islamabad, said two Pakistani sources with knowledge of the operation.

One said similar security protection would be provided for subsequent talks if the Iranians ask for it, “otherwise Pakistani aircraft would receive them in Pakistan airspace”.

A third source involved in the talks said measures were already in the works ahead of an expected further round of talks as soon as this weekend.

‘They might be targeted’

A regional diplomat briefed by Tehran, however, said Pakistan insisted on the escort after Iranian delegates raised the “hypothetical” possibility of a threat.

The discussions with the Iranian delegation about a potential threat while travelling and the presence of a Pakistani air escort into Iran have not previously been reported.

The Israeli prime minister’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Iran’s permanent mission in Geneva did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Pakistan’s air force and military did not respond to questions about the operation. The US embassy in Islamabad did not respond to a request for comment.

“When the talks failed, the Iranians were wary that things had not gone right. It was their suspicion that they might be targeted,” one security source said.

“This was a massive operational mission if you look at it from a pilot’s point of view. You are taking responsibility for a delegation that is coming for talks, you are giving them air cover, you have potent fighters that counter any threat,” he said.

The source involved in the talks, the highest-level engagement between the two countries since 1979, confirmed the air escort but did not provide details about the operation.

“We dropped them all the way to Tehran. Their security was our responsibility even beyond their time here,” the source said.

Sunday’s mission to Iran included Chinese-made J-10 aircraft, the top jet in the air force fleet, one official said.

The Iranian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, a former military officer and certified pilot, requested the security escort, which goes well beyond normal protocol, the two security sources said.

The regional diplomat said the Iranians did not make a formal request but also did not “rule out the possibility that Israel could even strike the aircraft”, prompting Pakistan to insist on providing a security escort.

The delegation did not land in Tehran, the diplomat said, declining to say where they were dropped off.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said last month, “I wouldn’t issue life insurance policies on any of the leaders of the terrorist organisation,” referring to Iran.

“I don’t intend to provide an exact report here about what we are planning or what we are going to do.”

Since the war began, Israel has assassinated Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, national security chief Ali Larijani, commander of paramilitary force Basij Gholamreza Soleimani, Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib and other top military commanders.

Shortly before agreeing to a ceasefire last week, US President Donald Trump posted on social media: “A whole civilisation will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will.”

Hours after the Iranians and the US delegation, led by Vice President JD Vance, left Pakistan empty-handed, sources told Reuters that dialogue was still alive.

Trump said on Thursday that the war “should be ending pretty soon” and that talks could take place in Islamabad this weekend.

PAKISTAN’S top civil and military leaders are currently engaged in hectic shuttle diplomacy, crisscrossing capitals in order to prevent the US-Iran ceasefire from collapsing, while hoping to bring both foes back to the table to seal a workable deal. Most of the international community is closely watching these efforts, hoping for a breakthrough that would allow calm to return to the Middle East, and prevent a global economic meltdown due to the war’s impact on world trade.

The prime minister was in Qatar on Thursday after visiting Saudi Arabia a day earlier, and will head to Turkiye from Doha. Meanwhile, the chief of defence forces was in Iran, meeting top officials. The Americans are obviously in the loop, as Pakistan’s leadership has reportedly been relaying messages between Washington and Tehran, while keeping key Arab and other Muslim capitals briefed on discussions. Although US President Donald Trump had indicated that the next round of talks was imminent, the Foreign Office spokesman has said that no dates had been finalised.

The fact that US and Iranian delegations met last week in Islamabad is no small feat. Pakistan’s deft diplomacy has been appreciated across the spectrum, with the UN, the US, Iran and other foreign powers all hailing its sincere efforts to end this devastating conflict. The White House press secretary, in fact, called Pakistan “incredible mediators”.

It is a testament to Pakistan’s diplomatic skills and foreign policy expertise that all sides involved have a significant level of trust in the country’s abilities. The Iranians feel comfortable with Pakistan, while the US president has often expressed his appreciation for its civil and military leadership.

Moreover, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and most other Arab states on the front lines of the conflict have very close relations with Pakistan, and realise that Islamabad will keep their views in mind. However, despite Pakistan’s best efforts, the ultimate end to this war will rely on decisions taken in Washington and Tehran, with the onus on the US — as the instigator of this conflict — to bring it to a swift close.

Despite the positive vibes, mistrust remains high between the US and Iran, while Israel will undoubtedly make every effort to scuttle a lasting deal. Before Mr Trump announced a 10-day truce yesterday, Israel had been pounding Lebanon mercilessly. Iran had insisted that the truce cover Lebanon as well; seemingly the move indicates Washington’s seriousness to take the process forward and keep the Iranians on board. Yet continued threats, such as those delivered by the US war secretary to Iran on Thursday, will hardly create optimal conditions for dialogue. There are great expectations that the proposed second meeting in Islamabad will deliver a peace deal. The opportunity must not be lost.

Published in Dawn, April 17th, 2026