Pakistan is stepping up efforts to broker fresh talks between the United States and Iran, with China backing the initiative as regional tensions spiral. The push comes amid intensified US airstrikes on Iranian targets and threats from President Donald Trump of further military action.
According to reports, Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni visited Islamabad for the second time in ten days, where exploratory discussions took place. Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also met his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the SCO meeting in Kyrgyzstan, emphasizing the need for dialogue and de-escalation.
China, a key supporter, views the mediation as critical to protecting trade routes through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb. Beijing reaffirmed its backing for Pakistan’s efforts. Meanwhile, Qatar urged all parties to honor the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding signed in June 2026, which focuses on freedom of navigation.
Trump indicated Iran is showing more willingness to negotiate, saying, “We’re talking to them right now. I think they’re getting more and more serious.” He warned that Iran would be held responsible for Houthi attacks on shipping and that any Russian or Chinese intervention would have serious consequences.
The US continues military strikes, reportedly hitting a Revolutionary Guards naval headquarters in Gilan province and killing four in Ahvaz. Iran’s military warned of retaliation for every Iranian killed. Pakistan’s Foreign Office stressed that dialogue, restraint, and sustained engagement are the only path to lasting peace.
Article and image source: paktribune.com
