Pakistan Mediates US-Iran Talks Amid Conflicting Reports on Second Round

Pakistan is mediating efforts to convene a second round of talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad this week, following a first round that addressed regional tensions. President Trump stated in interviews that the ceasefire expires Wednesday evening Washington time and is highly unlikely to be extended without an agreement.

Pakistani officials expressed optimism that the talks would proceed, viewing Iranian objections and Trump's threats as posturing for domestic audiences. A Pakistani source told the New York Post that Iran's hard stance was aimed at extracting maximum advantage.

Security measures in Islamabad included road closures and a cordon around the city center, with two major hotels cleared to house potential delegations.

Pakistan's involvement stems from its neutrality and historical diplomatic ties. The country's military chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, visited Tehran last week, contributing to a ceasefire in Israel's attacks on Lebanon and a temporary opening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Pakistan has balanced relations with the US, China, and Gulf states, and previously facilitated secret talks between China and the US in 1971. Ali Sarwar Naqvi, a former Pakistani diplomat and head of the Centre for International Security Studies in Islamabad, said Pakistan holds the confidence of all UN Security Council permanent members and the trust of Iran.

Zamir Akram, a former Pakistani ambassador, noted that Pakistan's embassy in Washington has represented Iranian interests since 1979. These ties positioned Pakistan as an interlocutor after a June 2025 meeting between Munir and Trump at the White House.

“Pakistan has the confidence of all the permanent members of the [UN] security council. Pakistan aims to avoid entanglement in conflict and secure its energy supplies from the Gulf. The mediation effort also seeks to elevate Pakistan's global standing, leveraging its nuclear capability and 600,000-strong army to attract investment amid economic challenges, including power cuts and a $3 billion loan from Saudi Arabia. US Vice President JD Vance is set to lead the American delegation, according to reports. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian could potentially attend if a deal is reached, with Pakistani officials hopeful for a signing in Islamabad. However, Iran's foreign ministry stated there are no current plans for further talks, contradicting reports of a delegation's travel.”