Efforts to facilitate dialogue between the United States and Iran are ongoing, Pakistani sources told Reuters on Tuesday, as US strikes on Iranian targets intensify and President Donald Trump’s looming military deadline approaches.
According to a senior Pakistani security official, Iran’s overnight missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia’s industrial facilities — linked to US firms — have the potential to derail the ongoing talks. A Saudi retaliatory response could escalate the conflict further, potentially drawing Pakistan into the hostilities under its defence pact with Riyadh.
A second Pakistani source described Iran as “walking on thin ice,” stressing that the next few hours are critical for the continuation of dialogue. Islamabad has been actively conveying proposals between Washington and Tehran, encouraging Tehran to join negotiations without preconditions, though no formal compromise has been reached yet.
Iranian officials confirmed that messages continue to be exchanged via mediators. However, a senior Iranian source stated that Tehran rejected a proposal for a temporary ceasefire, insisting that peace talks could only proceed after the US and Israel halt strikes, provide assurances they will not resume, and offer compensation for damages.
Pakistan’s central role as a mediator highlights its growing influence in regional diplomacy and the delicate balance required to prevent a wider Middle East escalation.
