Pakistan has announced its readiness to host peace negotiations between the United States and Iran in the coming days, as the conflict in the Middle East enters its second month with no signs of abating. The diplomatic initiative comes amid continued military escalation and accusations from Tehran that Washington is preparing for a ground invasion while simultaneously discussing peace talks.
Following a meeting of regional foreign ministers in Islamabad on Sunday, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar outlined his country's mediation offer. The gathering included top diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt, all of whom expressed unanimous support for the Pakistani initiative.
Pakistan will be honoured to host and facilitate meaningful talks between the two sides in coming days, for a comprehensive and lasting settlement of the ongoing conflict
Ishaq Dar, Pakistani Foreign Minister — Multiple outlets
The diplomatic push faces significant challenges, with both sides maintaining maximalist positions on how the conflict should end. Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has accused the United States of sending mixed signals, alleging that Washington is discussing negotiations while simultaneously preparing military action.
As long as the Americans seek Iran's surrender, our response is that we will never accept humiliation
Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, Iranian Parliament Speaker — Al-Monitor
The conflict, which began on February 28, has intensified significantly in recent days. Israel reported conducting over 140 air strikes on central and western Iran, including Tehran, within a 24-hour period ending Sunday evening. The strikes targeted ballistic missile launch sites and storage facilities, among other military infrastructure.
A critical economic dimension of the conflict involves Iran's effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20 percent of the world's oil and natural gas supplies normally pass. Regional powers have focused initial discussions on proposals to reopen the strategic waterway to shipping, as the blockade spreads economic pain globally.
The United States has deployed thousands of Marines to the Middle East, with reports suggesting Pentagon preparations for potential ground operations in Iran. However, US officials have not confirmed any final decisions regarding a land invasion. The military buildup has contributed to Iranian suspicions about American intentions regarding negotiations.
Recent escalations have included missile strikes on both sides. Iran launched attacks that injured at least 11 people in the Israeli desert city of Beersheba, while a chemical plant near Beer Sheva was struck, prompting warnings about hazardous materials. The conflict has also drawn in regional actors, with Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen launching missiles toward Israel.
The Pakistani mediation effort represents the most significant diplomatic initiative since the conflict began. However, it remains unclear whether both the United States and Iran have formally agreed to participate in the proposed talks. The US State Department and White House have not immediately responded to requests for comment on the Pakistani proposal.