Pakistan Optimistic as Iran Reviews US Peace Proposal

Pakistan has signalled cautious optimism over a possible breakthrough in the US-Iran conflict, as Tehran reviews a peace proposal aimed at turning a fragile ceasefire into a more durable diplomatic process. The development comes amid continued efforts by Islamabad to keep communication channels open between the two sides and prevent further instability in the wider region.

According to the report, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi as diplomatic activity around a possible settlement intensified. The conversation focused on regional developments, efforts to preserve peace and the need to continue dialogue at a time when the conflict has already placed pressure on regional security and global energy markets.

The emerging framework reportedly includes a 14-point proposal from the United States, which Iran is now reviewing. The plan is understood to include steps for formally ending hostilities and creating a 30-day window for detailed negotiations on sensitive issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief and safe movement through the Strait of Hormuz.

Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said Pakistan remained hopeful that an agreement could be reached sooner rather than later. He avoided discussing the technical details of the negotiations but stressed that Islamabad’s priority was to support a peaceful and sustainable solution that could reduce tensions not only in the region but also at the international level.

Iran’s foreign minister also briefed Pakistan’s foreign minister on his recent visit to China, where Beijing urged an immediate comprehensive ceasefire and a continued diplomatic path. Tehran also appreciated Pakistan’s role in facilitating repatriation efforts involving Iranian nationals and acknowledged Islamabad’s broader diplomatic support during a difficult phase of the crisis.

Pakistan has played an increasingly visible mediation role since hosting the first direct US-Iran engagement in Islamabad last month. Although that round did not produce a final agreement, it helped establish a backchannel that has remained active through Pakistan’s contacts with Iran, the United States and influential regional partners.

The conflict has carried serious implications for Pakistan because of its proximity to the Persian Gulf, its energy needs and its trade links with the wider Middle East. Any prolonged confrontation near the Strait of Hormuz could sharply affect oil prices, shipping routes and inflationary pressures, making a negotiated settlement important for Pakistan’s economic and diplomatic stability.

The latest developments suggest that regional powers are increasingly aware that continued confrontation would be costly and unpredictable. For Pakistan, the next step will be to maintain its diplomatic bridge-building role while waiting for Tehran’s formal response to the proposal and Washington’s reaction to any conditions Iran may attach to a possible agreement.