Islamabad and Tehran push for renewed talks
Pakistan’s army chief is expected to meet Iranian officials in Tehran on Thursday in a renewed diplomatic effort aimed at easing tensions and advancing US-Iran negotiations, according to diplomatic sources.
The visit comes as mediators work to organise a second round of talks between Washington and Tehran following nearly seven weeks of conflict.
Pakistan plays key mediation role
Pakistan has emerged as a central intermediary after hosting direct discussions between the United States and Iran in Islamabad.
Officials say those meetings helped narrow differences between the two sides, with plans now under discussion for further negotiations in Islamabad, although no final decision has been made.
US increases economic pressure on Iran
At the same time, the White House signalled that future negotiations remain uncertain.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington will intensify economic pressure on Tehran through new sanctions targeting countries doing business with Iran, describing the strategy as the “financial equivalent” of military action.
The United States also continues a naval blockade of Iranian ports, which has disrupted regional trade routes.
Ceasefire talks and diplomatic efforts
Mediators are attempting to secure a new round of negotiations between the US and Iran before a fragile ceasefire expires next week.
Officials involved in the process say discussions focus on three major sticking points: Iran’s nuclear programme, the Strait of Hormuz, and compensation for wartime damages.
Iran has signalled openness to discussing the scale and scope of uranium enrichment, but insists it will retain the ability to continue enrichment activities.
Regional tensions remain high
Iranian and Lebanese officials continue to exchange threats and warnings, while military activity persists in several areas of the region.
China has also urged stability in the Strait of Hormuz, stressing the importance of protecting global shipping routes.
Fragile diplomatic window
Mediators say there is a narrow opportunity for progress, but both sides remain divided over core issues. While some officials report an “in principle agreement” to extend talks, no formal deal has been confirmed.
The situation continues to evolve as diplomatic channels remain open but fragile.
Also read: Iran issues threats against US naval forces in Strait of Hormuz
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