Pakistan’s army chief in Iran as US’s Rubio says ‘slight progress’ in talks | US-Israel war on Iran News
Mediation Efforts Continue as Pakistan’s Army Chief Visits Iran
By AFP, Anadolu, and Reuters
Published May 22, 2026
Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, has arrived in Tehran to engage in mediation efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict involving Israel and the United States, which erupted on February 28.
Munir’s arrival was reported by Iran’s state-controlled IRNA news agency, noting that he was received by Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, accompanied by Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
This marks Munir’s second visit to Tehran amid Pakistan’s attempts to facilitate an end to the hostilities. Islamabad played a pivotal role in securing a temporary ceasefire on April 8 and subsequently hosted high-level talks between U.S. and Iranian officials on April 11-12, the first such discussions since 1979.
During this trip, sources close to the Pakistani delegation indicated that Munir will address matters related to Iran-U.S. negotiations, regional stability, and other significant issues. Pakistan has intensified its diplomatic efforts to arrange a second round of direct dialogue between the two parties.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei characterized the ongoing discussions as a turning point. He acknowledged significant gaps between Tehran and Washington, adding that negotiations are primarily focused on ending the war, with nuclear issues not currently on the agenda.
In a related statement, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism about potential negotiations, stating, “Iran is dying to make a deal.” He emphasized that the United States is committed to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Just days prior, Trump had refrained from military action against Iran, citing ongoing negotiations, yet he warned that the April ceasefire could collapse if an agreement is not reached.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reported “slight progress” during recent discussions with Iran while attending a NATO foreign ministers’ meeting in Helsingborg, Sweden. He clarified that there has not been significant movement towards an agreement despite repeated claims of progress.
Rubio reiterated that the conversations are ongoing, and noted that the U.S. might have to reassess its stance if further advancements do not materialize. The U.S. president had previously indicated he would delay military action to facilitate talks, only to resort to strikes soon after.
The White House also confirmed this week that Trump postponed military actions against Iran at the suggestion of allied leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
In a parallel development, European Union nations are moving forward with sanctions against Iranian officials responsible for obstructing navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic waterway has been critical for global oil and gas supply, which Iran has effectively blocked in retaliation for the ongoing war.
The EU characterized the blockade as “contrary to international law” and is expanding its existing sanctions regime to include additional individuals and entities. This move allows for the imposition of travel bans and asset freezes on those involved. EU citizens and companies will also be prohibited from providing financial resources to any individuals placed on the sanctions list.
As the conflict and blockade persist, energy prices have surged, creating broader implications for the global economy.
