Diplomatic efforts to prevent renewed fighting between the United States and Iran intensified Thursday as Pakistan stepped up mediation attempts aimed at restarting stalled peace talks between the two countries.
According to Reuters, Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir was expected to decide whether to travel to Tehran as part of the negotiations, while Pakistan’s interior minister had already visited the Iranian capital this week. Sources familiar with the talks said Pakistan is working to improve communication between Washington and Tehran amid growing concerns that the fragile six-week ceasefire could collapse.
President Donald Trump signaled impatience with the pace of negotiations, warning that if the U.S. does not receive “the right answers” from Iran, military action could resume quickly. Trump reiterated that the United States will not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon.
Iran, meanwhile, said it is reviewing the latest U.S. response to proposals submitted this week. Iranian officials reportedly continue to seek sanctions relief, compensation for war damage, and greater control over shipping through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz.
The strait, which previously handled roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, has seen a sharp reduction in traffic since the conflict began. Iran recently announced a “controlled maritime zone” in the area and said some ships may require authorization to pass through.
The war and resulting shipping disruptions have contributed to rising global oil prices and concerns about inflation worldwide.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards also warned against renewed attacks, saying another military strike could trigger a broader regional war.
Despite the ceasefire, tensions remain high. U.S. and Israeli leaders have said their goals include limiting Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and weakening Tehran-backed militant groups throughout the Middle East. Intelligence reports cited by CNN indicate Iran has already resumed some drone production during the ceasefire period.
Source: Reuters