Iran Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi thanks Pakistan for solidarity
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View on mapIslamabad set to host meeting for Middle East de-escalation
• Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Egypt foreign ministers arrive for quadrilateral huddle • PM speaks to Pezeshkian for over an hour to push for peace, condemns strikes on Iran • Iranian president underscores ‘deep mistrust’ of US, seeks confidence-building measures • US-Iran direct talks mediated by Pakistan likely in Islamabad next week; insider claims ceasefire may precede this meeting ISLAMABAD: Diplomatic efforts to bring the United States and Iran to the negotiating table to end nearly a month of hostilities entered into top gear on Saturday, with officials pointing to potential progress by midweek even as deep Iranian mistrust of Washington continues to cast a long shadow over the process. Momentum built around a lengthy phone call between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, as Islamabad prepared to host a four-country meeting seen as central to the emerging peace initiative. According to officials, the call lasted about 90 minutes and was the PM’s second conversation with Mr Pezeshkian in five days, both of which focused on de-escalation and pathways to dialogue. Pakistan has stepped up diplomatic outreach, engaging Washington, Gulf capitals and other Muslim countries in an effort to create space for talks. Islamabad is set to host a meeting of the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Egypt, alongside Pakistan. In a press release issued on Saturday, the Foreign Office said that at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Saudi Arabia’s FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Turkiye’s FM Hakan Fidan, and Egypt’s FM Dr Badr Abdelatty will visit Islamabad from March 29 to March 30. All three foreign ministers arrived in Pakistan on Saturday night, confirmed the FO in a statement. The quadrilateral mechanism, formed on the sidelines of a broader 10-country gathering of Arab and Muslim states in Riyadh earlier this month, has since evolved into a key diplomatic track feeding into wider efforts to end the conflict. Officials say the focus of this process is on facilitating the dialogue, with Pakistan being the central interlocutor between Tehran and Washington. The quadrilateral meeting was initially planned to be held in Turkiye, but at the last moment it was shifted to Islamabad due to Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s inability to travel because of his involvement in Pakistani efforts to facilitate the US-Iran talks. A diplomatic source said talks in Islamabad could take place around Tuesday, led by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Another diplomat closely following the talks said there is an expectation that Washington could announce a ceasefire to coincide with the start of dialogue, in line with Tehran’s demand for confidence-building measures. However, the diplomatic source cautioned that all this remained subject to how events would unfold over the next 48 hours. Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Friday claimed that a direct US-Iran meeting would take place in Pakistan “very soon.” ‘Deep mistrust’ In the call with PM Shehbaz, Iran’s Pezeshkian underscored deep mistrust of the US, noting that Tehran had twice come under military attack during ongoing nuclear negotiations. He said that despite US President Trump’s announcement of a pause on strikes targeting economic and energy infrastructure, such facilities were struck multiple times. He noted that these contradictions had further eroded trust. He stressed that confidence-building measures would be essential to enable talks, even as he warned of what he described as Israel’s intent to expand the conflict to other countries in the region. He also expressed concern over the use of some Muslim countries’ territory for attacks on Iran, while maintaining that Tehran’s responses were defensive in nature. PM Shehbaz, for his part, reiterated Pakistan’s condemnation of Israeli strikes on Iran, including recent attacks on infrastructure in Ahvaz and Isfahan, and conveyed solidarity with the Iranian people following heavy casualties. He emphasised that any dialogue must take place in an environment of trust and mutual respect, requiring an end to military aggression and the killing of Iranian officials and civilians. The prime minister also briefed Mr Pezeshkian on ongoing diplomatic efforts, including coordination with Gulf and Muslim countries, and said Islamabad had received strong endorsement for its peace initiative. Officials said the quadrilateral meeting in Islamabad is expected to consolidate regional backing for de-escalation and help align positions ahead of any direct US-Iran talks. While neither Washington nor Tehran is expected to attend the four-country meeting, it is still being viewed as a preparatory step toward a broader diplomatic opening. Beijing has conveyed to Tehran its support for Pakistan’s de-escalatory role and encouraged Iran to engage in dialogue. In a related development, a source revealed that Iran has shared through Pakistan its formal response to Trump’s 15-point plan to end the war. Separately, FM Dar also spoke to his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, stressing the need to end hostilities. Published in Dawn, March 29th, 2026
DawnMarch 29, 2026 at 05:29 AM UTCPakistan’s diplomatic moment
APPARENTLY, the stage is being prepared for US-Iran talks in Islamabad, despite deceptive statements and official denials. Western and Gulf diplomatic channels are confirming these reports; however, much depends on the backdoor communications currently underway through Pakistan. This is a rare moment for Pakistan’s diplomacy, as the country has become an interlocutor in a major global conflict after decades. There is little reason to doubt Pakistan’s diplomatic capacity to facilitate such talks, given its role in the breakthrough between China and the US in 1971. However, Pakistan’s real test is domestic: repairing the trust deficit with its own people. Certainly, such secret diplomacy usually enters the public sphere only when matters reach their conclusion, and the executive has the lawful authority to undertake such initiatives. However, if parliament were an effective forum for creating a conducive environment for such occasions, it would boost public confidence and foster a sense of pride. A joint parliamentary session should be convened to discuss the Iran conflict and Pakistan’s geopolitical and strategic priorities in the Gulf, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had promised earlier this month during an in-camera session of parliamentary parties. Although Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar delivered statements in separate sessions of the National Assembly and the Senate during Ramazan, a joint session dedicated to this issue has no substitute. Nonetheless, these are challenging times for democracies, including in several Western nations. US President Donald Trump has been criticised for launching military action against Iran without seeking Congressional authorisation, while the absence of the UN Security Council’s approval has also raised legal and political concerns. Public support often becomes secondary once power elites have chosen their course; however, in fragile democracies, such moments are rare opportunities to foster national pride, especially when divergent political views create a messy scene on public forums and social media. Setting aside the internal scenario for a moment, Pakistan has effectively handled the situation in the Iran-US-Israel conflict by engaging all actors involved while maintaining strategic clarity and balancing relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia. Pakistan’s weak economic profile has remained a hindrance, limiting its edge in West Asia’s geopolitical and security affairs. However, its profile as a specialised security provider remains a key strength, alongside its strategic geographical location, which provides a distinct advantage. Leveraging this profile, Pakistan has managed to carve out a role in an otherwise geopolitically complex environment. Pakistan’s profile as a specialised security provider remains a key strength. Many Gulf nations: Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Oman, the UAE, and especially Qatar have used mediation diplomacy to position themselves as facilitators of peace processes. This has helped them cultivate a softer international image, attract global investment, and, to some extent, obscure their authoritarian credentials. If Pakistan wants to join the club, it has yet to craft a coherent strategy to use mediation diplomacy to strengthen its economic and geopolitical gains. However, if Islamabad successfully facilitates talks between the US and Iran, it could open a new avenue for the country. Again, it would depend on the priorities of state institutions, whether they choose to keep the country positioned as a hard power or to fundamentally alter its posture. Although Pakistan has a record of diplomatic interventions and facilitating backdoor channels in the past, the news that Islamabad was chosen as one of the venues for possible talks came as a surprise to many. This is particularly so because Pakistan had been focused on ensuring its support and commitment to its defence pact with Saudi Arabia. It has created the impression that the country is set to become an active player in the West Asian war theatre. These accounts emerged following the interaction of the defence forces’ chief with Shia scholars in Ramazan. The emergence of its name alongside Turkiye and Egypt as a mediator gives a completely new dimension to Pakistan’s position in the conflict. As mentioned earlier, Pakistan and the US have a history of secret diplomacy. Five decades ago, Pakistan’s efforts played an important role in establishing diplomatic relations between the US and China, when, in 1971, US secretary of state Henry Kissinger made a secret but historic visit to China. One can’t ignore the military leadership’s recent efforts to restore confidence with counterparts in the US — confidence that had been shaken during the US campaign in and withdrawal from Afghanistan. While this may have played a role, the real question was Iran’s trust in Pakistan to facilitate such a channel. This is directly linked to the Israeli military threat and the intelligence agency Mossad, which has operational reach in the Gulf and beyond to target its opponents. Iran itself has been a major victim of Israeli aggression, which may have led it to prefer Islamabad over other capitals in West Asia, as Pakistan is perceived to be relatively insulated from Israeli intelligence networks. Now, developments are becoming clearer. Following a request to Washington to press Israel to remove the names of two Iranian leaders, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, from its hit list, the likelihood of talks being held in Islamabad has increased. If this materialises, it will mark a significant diplomatic moment for Pakistan and could foster unity among the country’s fragmented religious and ethnic communities. However, Pakistan’s own challenges in Afghanistan, where mediation efforts by China, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye have failed to deliver, will continue to test its diplomatic capabilities. Additionally, India and Pakistan need to normalise their relations, which have remained tense after last year’s stand-off. If Pakistan succeeds in developing an engagement framework with either or both, particularly Afghanistan, it will significantly enhance the country’s international image while helping to reduce internal security risks and regional strategic tensions. This would be essential for economic growth, with new prospects likely to emerge in the post-war environment. The writer is a security analyst. Published in Dawn, March 29th, 2026
DawnMarch 29, 2026 at 04:00 AM UTCPM Shehbaz apprises Iranian president of diplomatic outreach efforts in over hour-long conversation
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif apprised Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian of Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach efforts to organise peace talks between Washington and Tehran, in a phone call on Saturday that lasted over an hour. Pakistan has taken centre-stage in a process to mediate between the US and Iran, being carried out in collaboration with Ankara and Cairo. A statement by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said that the premier held a phone conversation with Pezeshkian earlier today. “During their detailed conversation, that lasted over one hour, the two leaders held extensive discussions regarding the ongoing hostilities in the region and peace efforts,” the statement said. The prime minister apprised the Iranian president of the diplomatic outreach efforts currently being undertaken by himself, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir to engage the US, Gulf and Islamic countries to “create a conducive environment for peace talks”, the statement said. He also briefed the Iranian president on the “strong endorsement” of Pakistan’s peace initiative, expressing hope that a viable path towards ending hostilities could be found collectively. According to the PMO, PM Shehbaz also reiterated Pakistan’s strong condemnation of the continued Israeli attacks on Iran, including the latest attacks on civilian infrastructure yesterday. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity and support “for the brave people of Iran in these challenging times”. PM Shehbaz also offered condolences on the loss of over 1,900 lives and prayed for the recovery of the injured and displaced. The statement added that Pezeshkian appreciated the prime minister’s sincere diplomatic efforts and shared his perspective on the ongoing hostilities perpetrated by Israel against Iran. “He stressed upon the need to build trust in order to facilitate talks and mediation. In this regard, he praised the prime minister for Pakistan’s supportive role for peace,” the PMO said. The prime minister thanked the Iranian president and assured him that Pakistan would continue to play a constructive role for bringing peace and stability in the region. Pakistan is set to host the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Egypt from March 29-30 for “in-depth discussions” on a variety of issues, including efforts to reduce the ongoing tensions in the region amid the US-Israeli war on Iran. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Dar confirmed on Thursday that “US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan”. He further said a 15-point US framework had been shared and was under Iranian deliberation, while the “brotherly countries of Turkiye and Egypt” are supporting the effort.
DawnMarch 28, 2026 at 10:06 AM UTCForeign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt to visit Islamabad for ‘in-depth’ talks on Iran war: FO
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is set to host the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Egypt from March 29-30 for “in-depth discussions” on a variety of issues, including efforts to reduce the ongoing tensions in the region amid the US-Israeli war on Iran. In a press release issued on Saturday, the Foreign Office said that at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Saudi Arabia’s FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Turkiye’s FM Hakan Fidan, and Egypt’s FM Dr Badr Abdelatty will visit Islamabad from March 29 to March 30. “During the visit, the foreign ministers will hold in-depth discussions on a range of issues, including efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region,” the FO said, adding that the visiting dignitaries will also call on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. “Pakistan highly values its relations with the brotherly countries of Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt,” the FO statement underscored. “The visit will provide an opportunity to further strengthen Pakistan’s cooperation and coordination with these countries across multifaceted areas of mutual interest,” it noted. Announcing the same on X, FO Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the “distinguished leaders will engage in comprehensive discussions on a wide range of regional and international issues — focusing on efforts to promote peace and de-escalation”. Originally planned in Turkiye, the talks were shifted to Islamabad due to Pakistan’s growing role in the Iran-US dialogue process and the possibility that it may also host those negotiations. The venue change reflects Islamabad’s deep involvement in ongoing diplomatic efforts, which made participation in a meeting in Turkiye less feasible. This shift has intensified the speculation that an Iran-US meeting is likely to happen in Islamabad in a few days. PM Shehbaz on Tuesday had formally pitched Islamabad as a potential venue for negotiations between Iranian and US officials, “subject to concurrence by the US and Iran”. Intensified diplomacy The four-country mechanism was formed on March 19 on the sidelines of a gathering of 10 Arab and Muslim states in Riyadh earlier this month. While initial accounts framed the meeting around defence cooperation, officials now say the current diplomatic track effectively emerged from that interaction. Following the Riyadh meeting, Egyptian intelligence opened channels with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), after which Pakistan moved to the forefront of the evolving diplomatic engagement. Maintaining that pro-active diplomatic approach, Dar on Friday held separate telephonic conversations with the Egyptian and Turkish foreign ministers on the evolving regional situation. They all had underscored the importance of dialogue and collective efforts to promote peace, according to FO. Dar also spoke with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, adding that the latter “extended his full support for Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts in pursuit of peace and stability in the region”. Speaking to FM Dar on Friday, his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi had said that Beijing endorsed Pakistan’s role in talks and had conveyed to Tehran to join the negotiations as it was an opportune time with the US under pressure in the war, according to diplomatic sources. The same day, in a phone call with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al Khaled Al Hamad Al Sabah “fully endorsed” Pakistan’s mediation efforts, the premier’s office said. Pakistan has taken centre-stage in a process to mediate between the US and Iran, being carried out in collaboration with Ankara and Cairo. Dar confirmed on Thursday that “US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan”. He further said a 15-point US framework had been shared and was under Iranian deliberation, while the “brotherly countries of Turkiye and Egypt” are supporting the effort. Following reports of the US sending its proposal, Iranian media had quoted an official as outlining five conditions under which Tehran would agree to end the ongoing conflict. Additional reporting by Ameer Hamza
DawnMarch 28, 2026 at 09:08 AM UTCUS Congress panel demands full public hearing on Iran war as concerns mount
WASHINGTON: Democrats on the United States House Armed Services Committee have called for an immediate public hearing on President Donald Trump’s war against Iran, pressing the Pentagon to testify publicly as concerns mount over strategy, transparency, and the mounting human and economic costs of the conflict. In a letter led by Ranking Member Adam Smith and signed by every Democratic member of the committee, the lawmakers urged Chairman Mike Rogers to convene a separate hearing on the conflict, apart from routine budget and posture hearings, and to require the Department of War to explain its objectives, operational plans, and costs. The Democrats noted that the war has already resulted in the deaths of 13 US service members and 290 wounded, along with more than a thousand civilian deaths. They expressed concern about the lack of clarity on possible US ground operations, shifting strategic and operational objectives, and reports that the administration intends to request a $200 billion supplemental budget for the conflict. The letter stressed that existing committee hearings with the Secretary of Defence and senior military leaders would not allow sufficient time and attention to the gravity and complexity of the conflict. The lawmakers wrote that transparency is critical, saying: “We are deeply troubled by the lack of transparency from the Trump Administration and the Department of Defence and its failure to keep Congress and the American people informed.” Pakistan’s mediation role As the war enters its second month, Pakistan has emerged as a key diplomatic intermediary, relaying ceasefire proposals between Washington and Tehran. Lisa Curtis, the Senior Director for South and Central Asia on the US National Security Council during Trump’s first administration (2017‑2021), noted that Pakistan’s role may surprise observers but reflects evolving regional dynamics. Curtis, now a director at the Centre for a New American Security, wrote that if successful, Pakistan’s mediation would strengthen its diplomatic credentials and US ties. In a commentary titled “Pakistan’s Iran Mediation Gambit Likely to Boost Ties with the Trump Administration“, she wrote: “It may be surprising to some that Pakistan has taken on the risky role of a key mediator between the United States and Iran to try to end the war entering its second month.” Multiple reports indicate that Iran is expected to respond soon to a 15‑point US ceasefire plan relayed via Pakistan, though Tehran has already dismissed portions of the proposal, describing them as heavily biased toward US and Israeli demands. Challenges to ending the war Commentaries in Foreign Affairs magazine warn that ending the conflict will not be straightforward. Analysts note that Tehran has rejected the US plan and issued its own counter-proposals, meaning the deadlock is likely to persist unless concessions are made by both sides. The magazine also highlights a growing risk of a US ground invasion as Washington deploys thousands of marines to the region. The publication underscores the complexity of Gulf dynamics, noting that Arab states are not pro-Iranian but are increasingly questioning the value of their alignment with Washington. Analysts argue that Iran’s long-term strategy aims not to defeat the United States militarily but to make its presence in the Gulf politically costly for Arab hosts, undermining basing rights, intelligence sharing, and military financing. US scholars urge that a mediating coalition of countries with influence on both Washington and Tehran — including Pakistan — must work urgently to secure a seriously negotiated ceasefire, one capable of holding, unlike a temporary truce announced in June. US faces Tomahawk shortfall amid Iran strikes The US has launched over 850 Tomahawk cruise missiles against Iran—about nine times its usual annual procurement, CBS News reported Saturday, citing administration sources. Despite a maximum production capacity of 2,330 missiles per year, the Pentagon typically buys only around 90 annually. For fiscal year 2026, the US Navy requested just 57. The total inventory is estimated at roughly 3,100 missiles. “It’s been recognised that we don’t have enough long-range strike capability, so we’ve been trying to build up these stockpiles—but we keep depleting them,” said Kelly Grieco, senior fellow at the Stimson Center.
DawnMarch 28, 2026 at 06:31 AM UTCCrisis meeting
WITH a catastrophic war raging on the nation’s borders, it is imperative that the civilian and military leadership continue to consult each other and other stakeholders in order to steer Pakistan through these stormy waters. On Thursday, with the US-Israeli war on Iran on the agenda, President Asif Zardari chaired a high-level meeting of the nation’s top officials to discuss a way forward. The moot was attended by the prime minister, chief of defence forces, key cabinet ministers and the PPP chief. The meeting stressed the need for “national consensus and public awareness” related to the challenges spawned by the aggression. As a neighbour of Iran, and located at a stone’s throw from the Gulf, Pakistan is especially vulnerable to the fallout of this conflict, as well as the shockwaves that are shaking the global economy. Of particular concern to those in attendance were Pakistan’s economic and energy security issues. Such consultations should continue, particularly if the conflict drags on. In fact, parliament should play a more active role, with lawmakers briefed on the evolving situation. In the past, parliamentary consultation has proved successful in shielding the country from geopolitical storms. The Yemen quagmire — in which Arab states wanted Pakistan to participate in the anti-Houthi campaign — is a case in point. The legislature wisely advised against stepping into the Yemeni imbroglio. In a similar vein, Pakistan should try and avoid being pulled into offensive operations against Iran. Tehran’s attacks on its Gulf neighbours are indeed unwise and complicate matters. But Pakistan cannot afford to get sucked into the Gulf vortex, and risk its fragile internal stability. The Gulf states are Pakistan’s friends and allies, and the country must do all it can to support them; sending surplus food supplies to help them tide over the crisis is one example of what can be done. At the same time, Iran, too, has deep cultural and historical links with this country; getting involved can negatively affect Pakistan’s internal sectarian dynamics. Therefore, Pakistan should try and stay neutral. The path this country is currently pursuing — trying to find a diplomatic off-ramp — is the best available option. Pakistan is in a unique position; it enjoys a measure of trust with Iran, while its ties with the Arabs, particularly the Saudis and the UAE, are excellent, even though greater clarity is needed on the mutual defence agreement signed with Riyadh last year. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has exhibited a marked liking for Pakistan’s current civil and military leadership. Pakistan cannot be expected to work miracles to end this brutal conflict. But it can surely act as a facilitator to help all belligerents reach a peaceful and just settlement. Published in Dawn, March 28th, 2026
DawnMarch 28, 2026 at 04:40 AM UTCIn call with PM, Kuwait crown prince endorses Pakistan’s efforts to mediate between US and Iran
In a phone call with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday, Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al Khaled Al Hamad Al Sabah “fully endorsed” Pakistan’s efforts for mediation between Iran and the US, according to a statement by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). The statement said that PM Shehbaz held a phone call with the crown prince and “apprised the Kuwaiti leadership of Pakistan’s sincere diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the war in the Middle East”. During the conversation, PM Shehbaz reiterated “strong condemnation” of the attacks on Kuwait and expressed solidarity and support for the people of the Gulf country in these challenging times, the statement said. PM Shehbaz also offered condolences on the loss of precious lives and prayed for the recovery of the injured, it added. “While expressing deep appreciation of the prime minister’s leadership, the crown prince of Kuwait fully endorsed Pakistan’s efforts for mediation between Iran and the US,” the statement said. The crown prince thanked the prime minister for Pakistan’s support to Kuwait in the current crisis as well as his recent letter of solidarity addressed to the Kuwaiti leadership, according to the statement. It added that the crown prince expressed his desire to visit Pakistan as soon as the regional situation improves. “The prime minister thanked the crown prince and assured him that Pakistan would continue to play a constructive role for bringing peace and stability in the region,” the statement concluded. The development comes as Pakistan has taken centre-stage in a process to mediate between the US and Iran, being carried out in collaboration with Ankara and Cairo, with officials confirming that indirect exchanges between Washington and Tehran are continuing through structured message relays, rather than direct contact. In a post on X on Thursday, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed that “US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan”, adding that a 15-point US framework had been shared and is under Iranian deliberation, while the “brotherly countries of Turkiye and Egypt” are supporting the effort. Islamabad, meanwhile, has emerged as the preferred venue for any initial engagement, even as the gap between the two sides remains wide, diplomats from the region told Dawn. According to a senior regional diplomat involved in the process, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir has been key in sustaining the channel, maintaining direct contact with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and relaying positions conveyed by the US side and getting their stance. Tehran looks at Islamabad’s role favourably because of what Iranians term its “comparatively balanced position” during the crisis and its perception as “a more reliable partner” than most of the other Muslim countries. Additionally, Field Marshal Asim Munir’s rapport with US President Donald Trump is seen in Tehran as a factor that could be helpful in opening the door for dialogue.
DawnMarch 27, 2026 at 11:27 AM UTC‘Very important neutral party’: Pakistan can play greater diplomatic role, says US lawmaker
WASHINGTON: As tensions surrounding Iran once again test regional diplomacy, Pakistan is emerging in Washington’s policy conversations as a potential intermediary — a shift that signals a broader reassessment of its strategic utility beyond the traditional security framework. At an hour-long virtual briefing held on Thursday evening by the Congressional Pakistan Caucus, Congressman Tom Suozzi suggested that Islamabad’s geographic position, demographic weight and cross-regional ties give it space to play a more active mediatory role. “And we see from this negotiation with Iran right now, and the role that it’s playing, Pakistan can play more and more of a role in international affairs as a mediator,” said Suozzi, the Democratic co-chair of the caucus. He described Pakistan as “a very, very important neutral party, with friends on both sides.” The remarks come amid renewed diplomatic maneuvering around Iran, where Washington has relied on regional actors to maintain communication channels. Pakistan’s leadership has signaled willingness to facilitate dialogue if both sides desire it. Suozzi noted that Pakistan has the fifth-largest population in the world and could soon become the largest Muslim-majority nation, which would further enhance its global significance. Demographics, he implied, are translating into diplomatic weight. Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Sheikh, framed the country’s potential role as rooted in its long-standing multi-directional diplomacy. “Yes, Pakistan actually has been uniquely placed for this role, because we have good terms with the United States. We have good neighbourly relations with Iran, and fraternal ties with the Gulf countries,” the ambassador said. He added that Pakistan stood ready to assist if both sides sought its help. “We would only be too honored if we are trusted by both sides to be a facilitator. Ultimately, the decision will have to be taken by the parties, but as a trusted partner, Pakistan will try to facilitate.” The mediation discussion formed part of a wider conversation about recalibrating US-Pakistan ties beyond a purely security-driven framework. Both speakers acknowledged that while the relationship has experienced periodic strains, it remains strategically consequential. Suozzi underscored Pakistan’s importance in US foreign policy, citing its nuclear capability, large military and location in what he called “one of the most important regions in the world.” He stressed that stability in Pakistan was critical not only for South Asia but for global security. Security challenges within Pakistan remain central to this calculus. Ambassador Sheikh noted that Pakistan continues to rank among the countries most affected by terrorism and bears a heavy burden in combating extremist groups. The persistence of cross-border militancy and internal insurgency continues to shape both Pakistan’s domestic priorities and its external partnerships. Yet Thursday’s discussion also reflected a desire to expand the relationship into economic and commercial domains. The US lawmaker acknowledged that while many Pakistani Americans and US firms were interested in investing in Pakistan, concerns about security risks, bureaucratic obstacles and political uncertainty often deter potential investors. He argued that increased trade and investment could help stabilise the relationship and deepen cooperation beyond counterterrorism. Ambassador Sheikh pointed to Pakistan’s demographic dividend, low production costs and mineral resources as underutilised strengths. He noted that the United States remains Pakistan’s largest export destination and suggested that expanding trade could provide a more sustainable anchor for bilateral ties. The briefing also addressed concerns raised by Pakistani Americans over delays in US visa processing. Suozzi described the pause affecting immigrant visa decisions as a “bad strategy” and indicated he was discussing the issue with congressional colleagues. Ambassador Sheikh characterised the pause as a temporary review affecting multiple countries and expressed hope for an early resolution. On Pakistan-India relations, Suozzi observed that members of the Indian and Pakistani diaspora in the United States coexist peacefully and urged a greater emphasis on shared history and common interests. Ambassador Sheikh reiterated that Pakistan seeks “peace with dignity” in South Asia and remains open to meaningful dialogue. The tone of the briefing suggested more than routine diplomatic courtesy. At a time when the Middle East is unsettled and great-power competition is reshaping alliances, Washington appears to be reassessing which regional actors can serve as credible intermediaries.
DawnMarch 27, 2026 at 05:22 AM UTCPakistan-led diplomacy raises prospects of de-escalation
• Dar confirms facilitating indirect talks between Washington and Tehran • Chances of face-to-face meeting over the weekend remain low, but both sides continue to engage on proposals • Diplomats involved in the process say Araghchi in constant contact with Pakistani officials • Ankara and Cairo also among venue options, but Tehran maintains preference for Islamabad ISLAMABAD: Chances of negotiations between the United States and Iran opening up at the end of President Donald Trump’s five-day pause remain limited, but a Pakistan-led initiative — in coordination with Turkey and Egypt — has created a narrow de-escalation window. Islamabad, meanwhile, has emerged as the preferred venue for any initial engagement, even as the gap between the two sides remains wide, diplomats from the region told Dawn. Pakistan has taken centre-stage in a process being carried out in collaboration with Ankara and Cairo, with officials confirming that indirect exchanges between Washington and Tehran are continuing through structured message relays, rather than direct contact. In a post on X, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed that “US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan”, adding that a 15-point US framework had been shared and is under Iranian deliberation, while the “brotherly countries of Turkiye and Egypt” are supporting the effort. According to a senior regional diplomat involved in the process, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir has been key in sustaining the channel, maintaining direct contact with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and relaying positions conveyed by the US side and getting their stance. Tehran looks at Islamabad’s role favourably because of what Iranians term its “comparatively balanced position” during the crisis and its perception as “a more reliable partner” than most of the other Muslim countries. Additionally, Field Marshal Asim Munir’s rapport with President Trump is seen in Tehran as a factor that could be helpful in opening the door for dialogue. ‘Go-between’ Officials familiar with the process say Pakistan has been acting as a go-between for some time, but stepped up its outreach in recent days as the conflict escalated and the risk of a wider regional spillover increased, with parallel engagements also taking place through Turkish and Egyptian channels involving senior level contacts on respective sides. While all three countries are described in US media as equal intermediaries, Pakistani diplomats point to Islamabad’s ability to maintain working relations with both Washington and Tehran as a key factor in sustaining the channel. Islamabad’s role, however, is being carefully framed. Iran, according to the regional diplomat, sees Pakistan more as a facilitator than a mediator and expects it to play a role similar China’s contribution in the Iran-Saudi rapprochement, where quiet diplomacy created the conditions for direct engagement rather than imposing outcomes. Pakistani officials have also avoided formal labels, with Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi saying the country is offering its “good offices” and acting as a facilitator while stressing that diplomacy in such moments requires discretion, patience and confidentiality, and that the objective remains de-escalation, cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue. The exchanges so far have gone beyond a simple relay of positions and preliminary discussions have, according to Pakistani and foreign diplomats, also touched on the structure, sequencing and venue of possible talks. Islamabad has emerged as the lead candidate, with the PM House even being considered as a potential venue for an inaugural round if negotiations materialise, though no formal confirmation has been issued by Pakistan, the US or Iran. This assertion about Islamabad being the preferred venue came amidst reports that US officials were reluctant to travel to Islamabad for the meeting because of security concerns. The FO spokesperson, while addressing these reports, said “Pakistan is very safe and secure. I do not think that safety concerns had any validity.” Tehran’s view Substantively, however, the gap between the two sides remains significant. Washington’s 15-point proposal, conveyed through Pakistan, includes demands related to zero enrichment, dismantlement of key nuclear facilities, transfer of enriched uranium stockpiles, limitations on ballistic missile programmes, cessation of support to regional armed groups, and guaranteed reopening of the Strait of Hormuz alongside a ceasefire framework leading to a broader agreement. While the proposal carries the prospect of sanctions relief, the regional diplomat noted that Tehran saw it as “maximalist”. Iran has rejected core elements of the proposal, particularly any requirement to end uranium enrichment or dismantle its nuclear programme, and also made clear that its missile programme is not open for negotiation during an ongoing conflict. On regional issues, the diplomat disclosed that Iranian officials have maintained that networks often described as proxies are not subject to negotiation in the current framework, while insisting that any future arrangement must go beyond a ceasefire and should include comprehensive cessation of hostilities addressing multiple theatres including Lebanon and Iraq, along with a new framework governing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The diplomat said that the Iranian positions were shaped not only by strategic calculations but also by internal shifts within the Iranian system, where the space for negotiation has narrowed following the assassination of Ali Larijani, who had been among the more prominent advocates of dialogue and has been working on an initiative before his passing. Decision-making has increasingly consolidated among harder line elements, with wartime management now resting with figures such as parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. Meanwhile the appointment of Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr as Larijani’s successor in the key security role reflects the growing influence of security institutions. In this context, potential Iranian negotiators, if talks materialise, are expected to be either led by Araghchi or Zolghadr, though no final decision has been taken. Prospects of breakthrough? On the US side, Vice President JD Vance is seen by Tehran as a more acceptable interlocutor due to his perceived less hawkish posture, while figures such as Witkoff and Jared Kushner are viewed as unacceptable due to what happened during the Omani mediated process when US along with Israel started war against Iran despite progress in talks. FO spokesperson Andrabi said that Pakistan has also remained in close coordination with regional partners, including Saudi Arabia, aligning diplomatic messaging and simultaneously maintaining channels with all sides. It is not clear if Tehran or Islamabad have taken Moscow and Beijing on board about this process. Despite the diplomatic activity, the likelihood of an immediate breakthrough, according to the regional diplomat, remains limited. He said that there was low probability that an initial meeting could take place in the coming days, and prospects for substantive agreement were also muted, unless the US takes a pragmatic position. Published in Dawn, March 27th, 2026
DawnMarch 27, 2026 at 02:21 AM UTCIs Pakistan hosting US-Iran talks? Here’s what we know so far
With the US-Israel war on Iran in its fourth week, Pakistan has stepped onto the diplomatic stage amid high-stakes wrangling to end the hostilities. Pakistan has repeatedly emphasised that it wants an end to the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East. And with the situation fluctuating by the hour, Islamabad has emerged as a potential venue for talks between the two sides. Here’s what we know so far. Rumours abound Since the conflict began on Feb 28, Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership has been engaging with the leaders of regional and friendly countries and calling for a de-escalation of hostilities. Over the past week, several global publications, including Reuters and Axios, claimed that Islamabad had actively offered itself as a facilitator for engagement between the US and Iran. Some reports hinted that a meeting could be held if things proceeded smoothly, with Axios and The Guardian claiming that mediators were considering Islamabad as a potential venue for talks. Amid the speculation, the Foreign Office on Tuesday had urged local media to await official announcements when asked about these reports. “Pakistan, consistent with its longstanding policy, remains committed to the resolution of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East/Persian Gulf through diplomatic means and engagements,” FO Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said in response to queries about the reports. “Diplomacy and negotiations often require that certain matters be advanced with discretion. The media is therefore encouraged to refrain from speculation and to await official announcements regarding decisions and outcomes,” he had said. Shehbaz formally pitches Islamabad as potential venue However, shortly thereafter, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally pitched Islamabad as a potential venue for negotiations between Iranian and US officials. “Subject to concurrence by the US and Iran, Pakistan stands ready and honoured to be the host to facilitate meaningful and conclusive talks for a comprehensive settlement of the ongoing conflict,” he wrote on X, tagging US President Donald Trump, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. While there was no official word on whether the offer was Pakistan’s own initiative, sources privy to discussions said that the request that Islamabad host talks between the two warring sides had actually come from Washington. It is worth mentioning that US President Donald Trump had shared PM Shehbaz’s post on his own Truth Social platform. US sends ‘peace plan’; White House tells media to refrain from speculation On Wednesday, US media reported that Washington had sent a peace plan to Iran, with the New York Times and Reuters naming Pakistan as the messenger. A senior Iranian official who spoke to Reuters did not disclose details of the proposal passed on by Pakistan, or whether it was the same as a 15-point US proposal reported by news outlets. The source claimed that “either Turkiye or Pakistan was under consideration as the venue for such talks”. Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) — which has been closely monitoring the war as Israel and Iran target each other’s nuclear structures — also added to the speculations. “I think there could be talks this weekend in Islamabad, Pakistan,” he told Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera in an interview. However, when asked if he would go to Islamabad, the IAEA chief replied, “We don’t know yet, but we’re available. The agency is an impartial and peaceful interlocutor.” Up until then, there was no official confirmation of Islamabad relaying Washington’s peace proposal. Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline was also asked about “face-to-face” talks between the US and Iran, potentially in Pakistan. “I’ve seen a lot of speculation and reporting about potential talks that could happen later this week. Nothing should be deemed official until it is announced formally by the White House. I would not get ahead of our skis on reporting about any talks this week, until you hear directly from us,” she said. She also cast doubt on the draft of the 15-point plan being cited in media reports, saying: “The White House never confirmed that full plan. There are elements of truth to it, but some of the stories I read are not entirely factual.” Later, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made the distinction between direct and indirect engagement clear, saying that an exchange of messages through “mediators does not mean negotiations with the US”. No talks were being held with Washington, he said, adding that the US had failed to achieve its key war objectives against Iran, including securing a quick military victory and bringing about regime change in Tehran. Dar says Pakistan facilitating ‘indirect US-talks’ but mum on hosting On Thursday, Deputy PM Ishaq Dar took to X to confirm that Pakistan was facilitating “indirect US-Iran talks”. “There has been unnecessary speculation in the media regarding peace talks to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. In reality, US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan. “In this context, the United States has shared 15 points, being deliberated upon by Iran”, contrary to earlier reports regarding the plan being rejected. “Pakistan remains fully committed to promoting peace and continues to make every effort to ensure stability in the region and beyond,” he said. However, he did not make any mention of whether this diplomacy would result in Pakistan hosting the two sides. FO says ‘developments’ will be announced as and when they happen The topic was also in the limelight in the weekly media briefing held by the Foreign Office (FO) at around the same time on Thursday. Responding to queries, FO Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi urged the media to refrain from speculation about US-Iran talks, particularly any venue or date for any possible dialogue. “This is not an event,” he remarked, stressing the need to distinguish between a “process and an event”. “Developments in the process will be announced as and when they have […] When the process has some concrete information, we will share with you,” he added. He also said that diplomacy, particularly in moments of heightened sensitivity, required discretion, patience and confidentiality. “These are not mere preferences. These are essential prerequisites for success. We would therefore urge all media platforms to exercise responsibility, refrain from conjecture and rely solely on official channels for accurate and timely information,” he said. “Pakistan will continue to play a principled and proactive role in building bridges guided by sincerity of intent and clarity of purpose. Our objective is unwavering and unambiguous. If I were to distil or summarise our goal into a single word. That word would be peace,” he said. He also responded to a question about a hold-up of Islamabad being confirmed as a venue due to “security concerns”. “Pakistan is very safe and secure. I do not think that safety concerns have any validity,” he said. Header image: A combination photo of US President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. — Reuters/File
DawnMarch 26, 2026 at 03:17 PM UTC