High-stakes diplomacy unfolds in Islamabad as global powers push for de-escalation while military tensions and economic risks continue to rise
ISLAMABAD: A high-level United States delegation is expected to arrive in Pakistan as diplomatic efforts intensify to broker talks with Iran amid escalating regional tensions and fears of a broader conflict.
Former US President Donald Trump indicated that he may personally engage with Iranian leadership if ongoing negotiations yield positive outcomes. He also claimed that a US delegation led by the vice president would reach Pakistan within hours, emphasizing the urgency of diplomatic engagement.
Reports suggest that an Iranian delegation is also likely to arrive in Islamabad soon for potential negotiations, although Iranian state media has dismissed several claims as false or exaggerated. Trump further stated that “90 percent of the news is fabricated,” while hinting that the outcome of any talks could be “surprising.”
The situation has further escalated following reports that US forces seized an Iranian vessel, with the US Central Command releasing footage of the operation. Iranian officials have warned that such actions undermine the significance of diplomatic talks, with one Iranian parliamentarian stating that negotiations hold little value after the attack.
Pakistan has stepped up its diplomatic efforts, with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and the Iranian foreign minister holding telephonic discussions. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also met the Iranian ambassador to review arrangements for a potential second round of talks in Islamabad.
Iran has maintained that it will not bow to pressure or accept “irrational demands,” while reiterating that it is open to negotiations but fully prepared for war if necessary. Iranian leadership has emphasized that war benefits no party and called for all diplomatic avenues to be explored.
Meanwhile, tensions have had a direct impact on global markets. Oil prices surged sharply, with international crude rising by nearly 7 percent amid fears of supply disruptions, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. British crude also recorded a significant increase, reaching $95.51 per barrel.
The conflict has already caused severe humanitarian consequences. Iranian authorities claim that casualties from US and Israeli attacks have reached 3,375, including reports of 160 schoolgirls killed in a strike on a school. These claims have further fueled global concern and calls for restraint.
In Israel, more than 1,000 homes in Tel Aviv have reportedly been declared uninhabitable following Iranian missile strikes. Meanwhile, Iran claims to have shot down an advanced Israeli drone during ongoing hostilities.
China and Russia have both urged de-escalation, with Beijing emphasizing the importance of maintaining free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Moscow has offered to assist in facilitating negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
In Pakistan, authorities confirmed that dozens of citizens have returned from Iran amid the escalating conflict. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that Pakistan will continue playing a constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability.
As diplomatic efforts continue, uncertainty remains high. Trump warned that failure to reach an agreement could lead to war, stating that “many bombs will start going off” if negotiations collapse.
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