Pakistan relaying messages in indirect US-Iran talks: Ishaq Dar

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Thursday confirmed that indirect talks between the United States and Iran are under way, with Pakistan relaying messages between the two sides as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts.

In a statement, Ishaq Dar said there had been “unnecessary speculation” regarding peace talks, clarifying that communication was taking place through back-channel messaging facilitated by Pakistan, with Turkiye and Egypt also supporting the process.

He said Iran is currently deliberating on a set of 15 points shared by the United States, adding that Pakistan remains committed to promoting peace and stability in the region. He emphasised that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path forward.

The development comes amid attempts to create a diplomatic opening to end the nearly month-long conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which began on February 28 and has impacted the wider Middle East.

Pakistan has emerged as a key intermediary, working closely with regional partners to prevent further escalation by relaying messages between Washington and Tehran.

These efforts have included direct contact between Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and US President Donald Trump, which was confirmed by the White House. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also offered Islamabad as a venue for potential talks between the two sides.

Earlier, Pakistan delivered a US proposal to Iran, though details of the plan have not been disclosed. Reports suggest that both Pakistan and Turkiye are being considered as possible venues for formal negotiations.

However, progress remains uncertain as Iran has indicated reservations about the proposal, stating it would end the conflict only on its own terms and timeline. Iranian officials have also outlined conditions including a halt to hostilities, guarantees against future aggression, payment of reparations and recognition of its authority over the Strait of Hormuz.

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Meanwhile, the Foreign Office said Pakistan is actively engaging with countries at both regional and global levels to support de-escalation. Officials confirmed consultations with several nations across the Middle East and beyond as part of ongoing diplomatic outreach.

The spokesperson added that the prime minister is personally leading communications with key stakeholders, while the deputy prime minister continues to remain in contact with counterparts worldwide to push for a ceasefire and peaceful resolution of the conflict.