The New York Times report claims that Israel had planned to target senior Iranian negotiators during their visit to Islamabad for peace talks. According to the report, concerns over a possible attack led to diplomatic efforts involving several regional countries.
The newspaper said the alleged targets included Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. It added that the US administration, through some countries in the region, warned Iran about the possibility of an Israeli operation.
According to the report, during the Iranian delegation’s visit to Islamabad in April, Iranian officials sought assurances through Pakistani and Qatari mediators that their delegation would not be targeted.
The report also claimed that Pakistan Air Force aircraft escorted the Iranian delegation’s plane during its journey from Iran to Pakistan and on its return flight. It further stated that intelligence about possible Israeli aircraft entering Iranian airspace from Iraq prompted the aircraft to divert and land at Mashhad Airport. The incident was reportedly confirmed by senior adviser Mohammad Marandi.
The New York Times report has drawn attention because of its claims about regional security and diplomatic efforts involving Iran, Pakistan, Israel, and the United States. However, the allegations have not been officially confirmed or denied by the governments involved.