Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan stands “ready and honoured” to host meaningful talks between the US and Iran. The offer signals Islamabad’s commitment to diplomatic resolution amid ongoing Middle East conflict. Officials stressed that any arrangements remain subject to discretion and formal confirmation.
The Foreign Office urged media to avoid speculation and await official announcements regarding Islamabad as a potential venue. FO spokesperson Tahir Andrabi emphasized Pakistan’s consistent support for diplomacy and dialogue to promote regional peace and stability. The statement follows reports by Reuters and Axios suggesting direct talks could occur soon.
Read more: Pakistan may host US Iran talks amid Middle East tensions
The recent conflict began on February 28 when the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran, coinciding with the assassination of then-supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Fighting continues across multiple fronts, although a temporary pause on strikes against Iran’s energy infrastructure was recently negotiated through diplomatic engagement involving Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt.
Backchannel discussions led by senior officials from Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt reportedly involved US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. These exchanges focused on de-escalation, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and potential parameters for a broader end to the war, though no direct US-Iran contact occurred.
Read more: PM Shehbaz reviews rising regional tensions
Iran has denied direct or indirect negotiations with the Trump administration, framing US announcements as market-influencing. Pakistan’s willingness to host talks underscores its role as a regional mediator while supporting structured diplomacy for conflict resolution.