ISLAMABAD — Pakistan is exploring efforts to revive stalled negotiations between the United States and Iran aimed at ending their nearly five-month-long conflict, according to Pakistani sources, following diplomatic efforts encouraged by China.
The discussions reportedly took place during a visit to Islamabad this week by Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, his second trip to Pakistan in less than two weeks. Momeni met senior Pakistani officials and Army Chief General Asim Munir, according to government statements.
Pakistani officials cautioned that major obstacles remain before any formal talks between Washington and Tehran can resume.
Pakistan has emerged as a potential mediator as regional tensions increase. China, which has significant economic interests in Middle Eastern trade routes, has been pushing for diplomatic solutions amid disruptions affecting key shipping corridors.
Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also discussed the diplomatic initiative with Chinese officials during his recent visit to Beijing, sources said.
A Pakistani government official said China was concerned that regional instability, including attacks affecting Gulf countries and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, could damage its economic interests and disrupt vital trade routes.
China’s Foreign Ministry said Beijing supports mediation efforts by Pakistan and other parties, adding that it would continue to play an active role in promoting peace and stability in the Gulf region.
Despite the diplomatic contacts, officials warned that significant challenges remain before meaningful US-Iran negotiations can restart.
