Islamabad – Pakistan has once again become prominent at the centre of global diplomacy as Pakistan’s role in back-channel contacts between the United States and Iran continues to grow, with a view to easing tensions and a possible ceasefire.
According to sources, Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Tehran for the second time in a week, where he held meetings with senior Iranian leaders. The meetings included Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Interior Minister Eskandhar Momeni. The aim of the meetings is said to be to reduce the growing tension between the two countries and prevent a breakdown in the communication system.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while talking to reporters, expressed hope that there may be progress in the situation in the coming days. He said, “There are some positive signs, but I don’t want to be unduly optimistic; let’s see what happens in the coming days.”
Rubio also said that the United States wants the dispute to be resolved diplomatically, but he also criticised NATO allies for not playing a more active role in supporting the United States.
According to sources, Pakistan’s efforts have also been noticed in Washington, and there is hope that Islamabad’s diplomatic efforts can lead to a temporary framework aimed at reducing the immediate tension.
On the other hand, there are also reports that high-level Pakistani figures may visit Tehran soon to further advance the ongoing talks. Some reports have also mentioned a possible visit to Iran by Chief of Defence Forces Asim Munir, but this has not been officially confirmed.
According to diplomatic sources, the talks have currently entered a very sensitive phase where discussions are ongoing on fine differences at the text level. These talks include points such as uranium monitoring, easing sanctions, maritime security and protection from re-attacks.
According to experts, if this phase fails, the risk of renewed military tension in the region could increase, while if successful, the path to a limited but important ceasefire could open.
