Bilawal calls US-Iran talks in Islamabad 'major breakthrough' toward peace

ISLAMABAD: Former foreign minister and Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has described the ongoing US-Iran talks in Islamabad as the “biggest achievement so far” in efforts to end the conflict in the Middle East.

Speaking in an interview with Al Jazeera, Bilawal emphasised that the mere occurrence of negotiations between the two sides marks significant progress, following Pakistan’s role in brokering a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

“The fact that these talks are taking place is itself a major success,” he said, noting that the cessation of hostilities across much of the region and the initiation of dialogue between the two key powers were encouraging signs. He expressed hope that the current truce would pave the way for a durable and lasting resolution.

Bilawal remarked that people in Pakistan and around the world were observing the developments with “cautious optimism,” highlighting both the human and economic toll of the conflict over recent weeks.

Addressing questions about the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz and the broader geopolitical stakes, he acknowledged the complexity of balancing interests among multiple stakeholders, including Iran, the United States, Gulf nations, and China.

He credited a range of countries for helping create the diplomatic conditions necessary for the ceasefire, including Pakistan, China, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Egypt, Qatar, and other Gulf Cooperation Council members. He also thanked the leadership of both Iran and the United States for agreeing to halt hostilities and engage in dialogue.

According to Bilawal, the widespread impact of the war has prompted a collective international effort to facilitate negotiations. “What we have seen over the past six weeks shows that war is not an option,” he said, warning that failure to reach a lasting agreement could have far-reaching consequences.

Responding to a question on shifting alliances and Pakistan’s future role, Bilawal stressed that the immediate priority for all parties remains resolving the ongoing conflict. He added that while the Middle East has borne the brunt of the crisis, a sustainable solution can only emerge if the ceasefire becomes permanent and meaningful dialogue continues.