Pakistan ready to host US-Iran talks to end Middle East conflict: PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said Pakistan is ready to host talks between the United States and Iran to help resolve the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

In a post on X, the prime minister said Pakistan welcomes and fully supports ongoing efforts aimed at dialogue to end the war. He added that, subject to agreement by both sides, Islamabad stands ready and honoured to facilitate meaningful and conclusive negotiations for a comprehensive settlement.

US President Donald Trump also reposted the premier’s offer on his Truth Social platform, signalling interest in the initiative.

The development comes after Trump said the US and Iran had held “very good and productive” discussions over the past two days, expressing hope for a complete resolution of hostilities in the Middle East. The talks reportedly involved US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

According to reports, Pakistan has been actively engaged in back-channel diplomacy, relaying messages between Tehran and Washington in coordination with regional partners including Turkiye and Egypt to prevent further escalation.

Read More: Female MNAs drive legislative agenda with strong policy focus: report

Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir also held a conversation with President Trump, as part of ongoing diplomatic contacts aimed at stabilising the situation. The White House confirmed the interaction, terming the discussions sensitive and evolving.

Meanwhile, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi reiterated that Pakistan is fully prepared to host talks if both sides agree, emphasising Islamabad’s commitment to resolving the conflict through dialogue and diplomatic engagement.

The war, which began on February 28, has resulted in significant casualties and economic disruptions, including rising fuel costs and global market instability, prompting renewed international efforts for de-escalation and peace.