Tehran: Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, has held significant meetings with senior Iranian officials as part of Pakistan's intensified efforts to mediate and bring a permanent end to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Arriving in Tehran on Friday, Munir's visit underscores Pakistan's active role in facilitating dialogue between the US and Iran.
According to Anadolu Agency, Munir engaged in talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf on Saturday. During these discussions, Qalibaf emphasized Iran's commitment to its national rights, cautioning the US against breaking the truce, which could lead to "more devastating" repercussions.
In addition to these meetings, Munir conversed with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who shared Tehran's perspective on ongoing negotiations with Washington. IRIB, Iran's state-run broadcaster, reported that the discussions were centered around Iran's Fourteen-Point Plan, which serves as the framework for the talks.
This visit marked Munir's second meeting with Iranian officials in a short span, as the Iranian Foreign Ministry noted an earlier meeting on Friday night between Araghchi and Munir. These late-night discussions focused on diplomatic strategies to prevent further escalation and to promote peace, stability, and security in the West Asian region.
Following the meetings, Munir departed Iran, as reported by Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency. His involvement in the mediation process between Washington and Tehran is significant, marking his second visit to Tehran in recent weeks.
Pakistan played a crucial role by securing a ceasefire on April 8 and subsequently hosting high-level talks between the US and Iran on April 11-12. The negotiations have revolved around reopening the Strait of Hormuz, addressing concerns about Iran's nuclear program, and discussing sanctions relief.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged on Friday that there had been "slight progress" in the negotiations. Additionally, US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the US had postponed renewing attacks on Iran following requests from Gulf leaders, indicating that serious negotiations are underway.