“Today marks the end of Iranian civilisation.” Donald Trump’s provocative declaration captured the apocalyptic mood of a region sliding toward catastrophic escalation. J.D. Cohen alleged in an interview with Time magazine that Iran had strong financial and operational relationships with groups like Hezbollah, the Houthis in Yemen, Hamas, and other organisations. He further expounded that Iran had an extensive global cyber capability and, with the use of Iranian proxies, may target the US through cyberattacks and conduct drone strikes. Iran has a significant presence in Mexico, Central America, South America, Canada, and even the US, through its military and intelligence operatives, Cohen stated.

In that monumental moment, annihilation eclipsed diplomacy as the governing lexicon of international politics, casting a shadow of foreboding over the globe. The Middle East teetered on the precipice of a cataclysmic conflict, its repercussions thundering far beyond regional borders: energy markets would tremble, maritime trade would shudder, and food security would hang in the balance, as the world held its breath in anticipation of the impending devastation. Amid this rupture, Pakistan emerged not as a spectator but as an active diplomatic bridge for regional stability. Within days of the ceasefire push, Islamabad hosted the highest-level direct US-Iran talks; although the first round of 21-hour negotiations on April 11–12, 2026 ended without a conclusive agreement, Pakistan’s role in bringing the two sides to the table was a notable display of diplomatic finesse. That is why the Islamabad Accord should not be reduced to whether a final settlement was reached in one sitting. A second round of talks is in the offing. Its significance lies in the........

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