TEHRAN/ISLAMABAD: Iran has acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan’s role in mediating efforts to ease tensions with the United States, as uncertainty continues over the next round of negotiations between the two sides.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran was grateful for Islamabad’s diplomatic initiatives aimed at ending the conflict and promoting regional peace. However, he stopped short of commenting on the recent ceasefire extension announced by Washington.
Baqaei reiterated that Iran remains focused on safeguarding its national interests and security, adding that its armed forces are fully prepared to respond decisively to any threats. He emphasized that diplomacy would be pursued when conditions are deemed suitable and beneficial for advancing Iran’s strategic objectives.
He maintained that Iran did not initiate the conflict and described its actions as legitimate self-defence in response to military aggression. He also said Tehran would continue efforts to hold those responsible for alleged war crimes accountable and seek compensation.
The statement came after US President Donald Trump announced an extension of the ceasefire, citing requests from Pakistan’s leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and military chief Asim Munir. The truce, originally due to expire earlier this week, has been prolonged to allow more time for diplomatic engagement.
Despite these developments, prospects for a second round of talks in Islamabad remain uncertain. While initial discussions held earlier this month ended without a breakthrough, they did not collapse, and Pakistan has since intensified diplomatic efforts to bring both sides back to the table.
Officials in Islamabad have indicated ongoing contact with both Washington and Tehran, though no formal confirmation has been received from Iran regarding its participation in upcoming talks.
Tensions persist over key issues, including US naval actions against Iranian-linked vessels and a maritime blockade that Tehran views as a violation of the ceasefire. Iranian officials have also linked progress in negotiations to the reopening of the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz and broader concerns over restrictions on Iran’s nuclear programme.
Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said a meaningful ceasefire would require an end to what he described as economic and maritime pressure, stressing that recognition of Iran’s rights remains essential for any lasting resolution.
As diplomatic efforts continue, Pakistan’s role as a facilitator remains central, with hopes that continued engagement may pave the way for renewed negotiations and a potential breakthrough.