Pakistan Steps Up Mediation Efforts Amid US-Iran Tensions, Reports Claim

Islamabad: Pakistan is positioning itself as a key mediator to help ease escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran, according to a report by Financial Times.

The report claims that Pakistan has intensified diplomatic efforts to facilitate dialogue, with General Asim Munir holding a telephone conversation with Donald Trump on Sunday, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday.

According to the publication, senior Pakistani officials also arranged backchannel contacts involving Iranian authorities, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner in an effort to reduce tensions.

The reported diplomatic outreach comes as Donald Trump announced a delay in potential military strikes on Iran’s power infrastructure, stating that “very good and positive” discussions had taken place with Tehran. However, it remains unclear whether Pakistan’s mediation efforts directly influenced the decision. The White House has not provided further details.

Separately, Reuters reported that Pakistan, along with Turkey and Egypt, is actively engaged in mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran. The report added that discussions were held with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US-linked interlocutors, aiming to de-escalate the situation.

Reuters further noted that Washington has briefed Israel on its communications with Iran, and there are indications that Israel may also refrain from targeting Iranian power facilities.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump confirmed via his social media platform, Truth Social, that military action against Iran’s energy infrastructure has been postponed for five days, contingent on the progress of ongoing negotiations. He described recent talks as “positive, productive, and constructive.”

However, Iran has denied holding direct negotiations with the United States. The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated that no direct talks are taking place with Washington, adding that regional actors are making efforts to reduce tensions. Iranian officials also suggested that Trump’s remarks may be aimed at stabilizing global energy prices.

Following the announcement, global oil markets reacted sharply, with US crude prices falling by 10% to $88.34 per barrel, while British crude dropped by 10% to $101.49 per barrel.

International leaders have welcomed the prospect of dialogue. The UK prime minister termed reports of negotiations as encouraging and reiterated the need for a swift resolution, emphasizing the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi also stated that efforts are underway to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, warning that continued conflict could further worsen the situation in the Middle East.