Key facts
- Pakistan is exploring a path toward resuming stalled U.S.-Iran talks, according to three Pakistani sources.
- Exploratory discussions occurred during Iran's Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni's visit to Islamabad.
- China has initiated a diplomatic push to facilitate these potential talks.
- Obstacles to any U.S.-Iran talks remain high, with a halt in attacks on Gulf nations deemed a prerequisite.
- Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi movement has declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia and attacked oil tankers.
Pakistan is exploring a path toward the resumption of stalled U.S.-Iran talks, following a diplomatic push initiated by China, according to three Pakistani sources. Exploratory discussions took place during a visit by Iran's Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni to Islamabad this week, his second in 10 days. Momeni, considered close to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, met with Pakistani government leaders and army chief Asim Munir.
Despite these efforts, the sources cautioned that significant obstacles remain for any potential talks with the U.S. Pakistan finds itself in a complex position, balancing its reliance on Saudi financial support with its dependence on Beijing. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and disruptions in the Red Sea, which impact China's economic interests, are key concerns for Beijing. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also discussed the Middle East initiative with Chinese officials during a recent visit to China.
China's foreign ministry confirmed its support for Pakistan's mediation efforts and stated its intention to play an active role in restoring peace in the region. Beijing, Iran's largest trading partner, has consistently backed Pakistan's diplomatic initiatives. The U.S. and Iran had previously signed a memorandum of understanding in June to move towards ending their conflict, but indirect talks yielded no progress, with both sides blaming each other for violations.
The situation has been further complicated by the Houthi movement's declaration of a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia and recent attacks on Saudi oil tankers. A Pakistani official stated that a halt in attacks on Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations is now a prerequisite for any talks to resume, a message that has been conveyed to Iran.