Pakistan races to reopen US-Iran talks as ceasefire holds |
PAKISTAN is actively working to resume the Islamabad Talks, aiming to facilitate a negotiated settlement between Iran and the United States.
The initial round of negotiations, hosted by Pakistan on April 10–11, 2026, marked a historic breakthrough. Although the talks did not culminate in a formal agreement, they represented significant progress, as the two adversaries engaged in direct dialogue for the first time in 47 years, since Islamic Revolution in Iran 1979. The first phase of the Islamabad Talks can be considered a success. It addressed most of the critical issues between Tehran and Washington, laying a solid foundation for future engagement. However, key differences remained unresolved, particularly regarding Iran’s nuclear programme and the strategic management of the Strait of Hormuz.
In an effort to revive the dialogue, Pakistan has launched an intensive diplomatic campaign. Signals from Washington suggest a willingness to return to the negotiating table, especially as the ongoing conflict has been paused for two weeks. This window of opportunity has prompted Islamabad to accelerate its diplomatic outreach across the region. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has embarked on visits to Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries to garner support for the resumption of talks. During his visit to Riyadh, he held in-depth discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The primary objective of these meetings was to bring Saudi Arabia on board and ensure its constructive role in addressing broader regional tensions, particularly those involving Iran.
Simultaneously, Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Field Marshal Asim Munir, has played a crucial role in engaging directly with Iranian leadership. His visit to Tehran focused on building trust and addressing contentious issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme and concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. US Naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has further compounded the problem which goes against international law. Indeed, US desire that, Iran should be put on defensive before another round of talks. Besides, Washington is economically constraining Tehran by stopping the flow of oil from Iran to international markets. Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear programme is peaceful and intended solely for civilian energy purposes. Iranian officials have reiterated that their activities remain under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and, therefore, comply with international norms. While asserting that Iran’s right to enrich uranium is “indisputable,” Tehran has also indicated that the level of enrichment remains open to negotiation.
Iranian representatives have, however, expressed reservations about certain US demands, describing them as “unreasonable and unrealistic.” Despite these disagreements, Iran has demonstrated a willingness to continue dialogue, emphasizing that its right to peaceful nuclear energy cannot be curtailed through coercion or conflict. The diplomatic engagement between Pakistan and Iran has been warmly received. Iran’s Foreign Minister, in a message posted on social media, welcomed Field Marshal Munir and expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s role in hosting the dialogue. He underscored the deep bilateral relationship between the two countries and reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional peace and stability.
Encouragingly, communication channels between Iran and the United States have remained active since the conclusion of the first phase of talks. These exchanges, facilitated both directly and indirectly through Pakistan, indicate a mutual willingness to resume negotiations. President Donald Trump has also publicly expressed optimism about the process, suggesting that talks could resume soon and even indicating a preference for Pakistan as the venue. Pakistan’s proactive diplomatic role is rooted in multiple strategic considerations. First, Islamabad seeks to prevent further destruction in Iran and the broader Gulf region, where the conflict has already caused significant instability and losses to men and material. Second, Pakistan aims to contribute to global peace by facilitating an end to a conflict that carries serious international implications for almost states including Europe and China.
Third, there is a pressing need to prevent the escalation of the conflict into a wider war involving major powers such as China and Russia. Prolonged hostilities could draw these countries into the conflict, thereby intensifying global dimension of war and making this region as the centre of destruction. Fourth, Pakistan is keen in averting the possibility of the war expanding into a broader confrontation between Iran and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states; an outcome that would have devastating regional consequences which could be conceived and perceived by many. Finally, the ongoing crisis has disrupted global energy markets, largely due to tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical transit energy and logistic route. By promoting dialogue and de-escalation, Pakistan hopes to mitigate the risk of a prolonged energy crisis that could impact economies worldwide.
Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts have been widely acknowledged. Both US and Iranian leaders have expressed appreciation for Islamabad’s constructive role, particularly highlighting the leadership of Field Marshal Asim Munir. His involvement has been described as instrumental in achieving the current ceasefire and advancing prospects for a lasting peace.
Indeed, Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between Iran and the United States stands out as both significant and unique. At a time when major global powers and international organizations could do little to mediate effectively, Pakistan has emerged as a credible and trusted intermediary. As Islamabad continues its diplomatic push, the resumption of talks offers a renewed hope for a peaceful resolution to a long-standing and potentially devastating conflict. The success of these efforts will not only enhance Pakistan’s international standing but also contribute meaningfully to regional and global stability.
— The writer is Professor of Politics and IR at International Islamic University, Islamabad.