Pakistan conveys US proposal to Iran as diplomatic efforts gather pace

-- Turkiye or Pakistan could host talks, senior Iranian official says

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has conveyed a proposal from the United States to Iran, according to a senior Iranian official, as behind-the-scenes diplomacy continues to explore ways to end the ongoing conflict. The location for any potential negotiations between Tehran and Washington remains undecided, and details of the proposal have not been disclosed.

The source indicated that both Pakistan and Turkiye are being considered as possible venues for future talks. Turkiye is also actively involved in efforts to facilitate dialogue aimed at reducing tensions and moving toward a resolution.

Concerns are growing in Islamabad over the possibility of the conflict spilling across borders, with analysts warning of broader regional instability. Pakistan is already dealing with security challenges along its western frontier and has felt the economic impact of disrupted fuel supplies linked to the war, which began on February 28.

Recent reports suggest Pakistan is positioning itself as a key mediator in efforts to bridge communication between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Senior Pakistani officials have reportedly been engaged in quiet diplomatic exchanges involving figures such as Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, while US officials have acknowledged ongoing contact at high levels.

Field Marshal Asim Munir recently held a conversation with US President Donald Trump, as diplomatic engagement intensifies. While speculation has emerged about possible visits by US envoys to Islamabad, Washington has emphasized that discussions remain sensitive and evolving.

Over the past two days, Pakistan, working closely with Turkiye and Egypt, has played a significant role in facilitating indirect communication between the parties. There are also indications that a meeting between US and Iranian representatives could take place soon, potentially hosted by Pakistan, with senior US officials in attendance.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has publicly stated that Pakistan is prepared to host talks aimed at resolving the crisis in the Middle East.

Despite these developments, uncertainty remains. Iran has firmly denied that any negotiations with the United States are underway. Officials in Tehran have reiterated their distrust of US diplomacy, citing past experiences and accusing Washington of undermining earlier negotiation efforts.

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei rejected claims of ongoing talks, while the country’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, also stated that no direct or indirect discussions have taken place so far.

He noted, however, that friendly nations are attempting to create conditions for dialogue, expressing hope that such efforts could eventually lead to an end to what Iran describes as an imposed war.

The conflict has already resulted in more than 2,000 deaths and has triggered widespread economic repercussions, including rising fuel prices and increased global inflation concerns, while also straining international alliances.