Islamabad: Pakistan has intensified its diplomatic maneuvers to facilitate a "breakthrough" in bringing the US and Iran back to the negotiating table, as reported by multiple Pakistani sources familiar with the ongoing developments. The diplomatic push follows US President Donald Trump's unilateral extension of a two-week ceasefire with Iran, announced just hours before the initial deadline was set to expire.
According to Anadolu Agency, the renewed efforts are aimed at persuading President Trump to lift the blockade of Iranian ports, a primary condition set by Tehran for the resumption of talks. Pakistan's top leadership is actively involved in these diplomatic efforts, with the US maintaining its stance that Iran cannot acquire nuclear weapons and seeking a resolution to Tehran's enriched uranium activities. Despite the urgency, sources acknowledged that there is "no definitive timeframe" for the next round of talks, noting that "both sides are testing each other's nerves."
Trump has indicated that Pakistan-mediated talks with Iran could potentially occur within 36-72 hours. However, sources admit that the current process to resolve the deadlock is more challenging than previous negotiations, where Islamabad successfully brokered a ceasefire in April. Pakistan remains in continuous contact with regional nations, seeking their influence to persuade Iran to re-engage in talks.
Despite preparations for a second round of talks this week, Tehran has demanded the US lift the blockade of Iranian ports, complicating the negotiation process. Meanwhile, an "advanced" US team that arrived in Islamabad on Sunday remains in the capital, awaiting further instructions from Washington. Although several US planes carrying officials and equipment landed in Islamabad over the weekend, Iranian representatives have not returned to the Pakistani capital.
Pakistani authorities continue to enforce high-level security measures in Islamabad, with roads leading to the capital's "Red Zone" remaining closed to general traffic. Educational institutions and hostels in Islamabad and the adjoining city of Rawalpindi have also been closed since last week, and public transport, including metro bus services, remains suspended.
Confidence-building measures could play a crucial role in breaking the stalemate. Sources indicate that President Trump believes he can "twist Iran's arm" through a naval blockade of Tehran's port to negotiate from a "commanding position." Despite the complex nature of the issue, there is hope for a resolution, as both sides recognize that war is not a viable solution.
Sardar Masood Khan, Pakistan's former ambassador to the US and the UN, suggests that easing blockades and ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz could foster a conducive environment for dialogue. He proposes that if the US releases recently seized Iranian ships and lifts the blockade of Tehran's ports while maintaining its military presence around the Strait, and Iran, in return, fully opens the strait for commercial traffic, it could serve as common ground for negotiations.
On Tuesday, President Trump extended the ceasefire with Iran to allow time for Tehran to prepare a "unified proposal," following a request by Pakistani officials. Washington demands the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which has faced restrictions since US and Israeli attacks on Iran earlier this year. Tehran temporarily declared the strait open last week but re-closed it following Trump's announcement that the blockade would persist. Additionally, American forces detained an Iranian cargo ship after opening fire and boarding it.