Pakistan Hosts Fresh Diplomatic Push as Iran’s Foreign Minister Arrives for Talks
By Tahir Shah :
Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad late on Friday, signalling a renewed diplomatic push as efforts intensify to revive negotiations between Iran and the United States over the ongoing Middle East conflict.
The Iranian foreign minister is expected to meet Shehbaz Sharif and Ishaq Dar during his visit, with discussions focused on regional security and ongoing mediation efforts led by Pakistan.
Senior officials, including Asim Munir, received Araghchi upon arrival, underlining the importance Islamabad is placing on its role as a facilitator between Tehran and Washington.
The visit comes as part of a broader regional tour that will also take the Iranian diplomat to Muscat and Moscow, according to Iranian state media. The trip aims to coordinate positions and assess the evolving situation following weeks of conflict triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran.
Meanwhile, Washington has confirmed that envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to travel to Pakistan for a potential new round of talks. A US logistical and security team is already present in the capital, suggesting preparations for negotiations are underway.
The diplomatic activity follows Pakistan’s earlier role in brokering a temporary ceasefire on April 8 and hosting initial talks days later. However, those discussions ended without a breakthrough, leaving key issues unresolved.
Tensions remain high, particularly around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, where competing actions by both sides — including a US naval blockade and Iranian restrictions on shipping — have complicated negotiations.
Despite these challenges, Pakistani officials continue to push for dialogue. In a recent call with Araghchi, Ishaq Dar stressed that sustained engagement remains essential for long-term regional stability.
The latest visit reflects cautious optimism that diplomacy could regain momentum, even as uncertainty persists over whether both sides can agree on conditions for a lasting settlement.
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