PAKISTAN is actively working to resume the Islamabad Talks, aiming to facilitate a negotiated settlement between Iran and the United States.

The initial round of negotiations, hosted by Pakistan on April 10–11, 2026, marked a historic breakthrough. Although the talks did not culminate in a formal agreement, they represented significant progress, as the two adversaries engaged in direct dialogue for the first time in 47 years, since Islamic Revolution in Iran 1979. The first phase of the Islamabad Talks can be considered a success. It addressed most of the critical issues between Tehran and Washington, laying a solid foundation for future engagement. However, key differences remained unresolved, particularly regarding Iran’s nuclear programme and the strategic management of the Strait of Hormuz.

In an effort to revive the dialogue, Pakistan has launched an intensive diplomatic campaign. Signals from Washington suggest a willingness to return to the negotiating table, especially as the ongoing conflict has been paused for two weeks. This window of opportunity has prompted Islamabad to accelerate its diplomatic outreach across the region. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has embarked on visits to Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries to garner support for the resumption of talks. During his visit to Riyadh, he held in-depth discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The primary objective of these meetings was to bring Saudi Arabia on board and ensure its constructive role in addressing broader regional tensions, particularly those........

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