Pakistan says it has made “significant progress” in high-level talks with Iran aimed at de-escalating the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel, raising cautious hopes for renewed diplomatic efforts to restore regional stability.
Pakistan’s Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir travelled to Tehran for discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and other senior Iranian officials. Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who accompanied Munir, said the discussions focused on finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict and preventing further escalation across the Middle East.
Strait of Hormuz Central to Talks
A major focus of the Tehran discussions was the Strait of Hormuz, the strategically important waterway through which a significant share of global oil supplies normally passes.
Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts include seeking a reopening and normalization of shipping through the Strait as part of a broader settlement. Disruptions and attacks affecting shipping in the region have intensified concerns about global energy supplies and oil prices.
Naqvi said the Iranian leadership openly presented its position during the talks and described the discussions as constructive. Both Pakistan and Iran stressed the importance of preventing further regional escalation and pursuing a negotiated solution.
Munir Spoke With Trump Before Tehran Visit
The diplomatic push followed communication between Munir and US President Donald Trump before the Pakistani army chief’s visit to Tehran. Reuters reported that Trump urged Pakistan to use its influence to encourage Iran to return to negotiations.
Pakistan has played a mediating role between Washington and Tehran during the conflict, but efforts to secure a lasting settlement have faced repeated setbacks. As recently as August 18, Trump said no direct US-Iran negotiations were taking place or scheduled.
The latest diplomatic progress also comes as Washington intensifies economic pressure on Tehran. The United States announced expanded sanctions targeting 60 Iran-linked individuals, entities and vessels, while Iran has warned that it will retaliate against the new measures.
Despite Pakistan’s announcement of significant progress, no final peace agreement has been announced. The Tehran discussions nevertheless represent a renewed diplomatic effort to reduce hostilities, stabilize the Strait of Hormuz and bring the parties closer to negotiations.
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