Pakistan PM, army chief wrap up key trips in push for more US-Iran talks | US-Israel war on Iran News
Field Marshal Asim Munir Concludes Tehran Visit Amid Diplomatic Efforts for US-Iran Talks
ISLAMABAD — Pakistan’s military chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, has returned from a three-day diplomatic mission in Tehran, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has completed a separate trip to Turkiye. Both leaders aimed to facilitate negotiations to address the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran.
During his visit, Munir engaged with senior Iranian officials, including the president, foreign minister, parliament speaker, and head of Iran’s military command, according to a statement from Pakistan’s military. This effort underscores Pakistan’s commitment to fostering peace and stability in the region ahead of anticipated US-Iran discussions in Islamabad.
The Iranian delegation, comprising Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, had recently visited Islamabad for previously scheduled talks with US representatives. Those discussions marked a significant moment, as it was the highest-level in-person engagement between Washington and Tehran in decades. However, the talks concluded without a resolution, and a ceasefire is set to expire on April 22.
In parallel, Sharif’s trip to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye concluded on Saturday, signaling Pakistan’s proactive stance towards the peace process. In a statement on social media, Sharif expressed his appreciation for the support from Turkey, indicating a strengthened commitment to ongoing dialogue and diplomacy in pursuit of regional stability.
The resurgence of diplomatic engagements comes amid rising pressures for a US-Iran agreement following Iran’s reinstatement of restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz. This decision came shortly after the waterway’s reopening, a move Iran attributed to what it claims were violations by the US of an agreement relating to the strategic passage.
Former President Donald Trump suggested that further negotiations could take place in Pakistan soon, commending Munir’s diplomatic efforts. Reports indicate that Munir has returned to Islamabad as preparation intensifies for the next phase of US-Iran talks expected within days.
Kamal Hyder, reporting from Islamabad, noted that international eyes are on the Pakistani leadership as diplomatic activities surge, despite lingering serious differences. Optimism remains regarding the potential for a breakthrough in these ongoing negotiations.
