Islamabad: Pakistan’s role as mediator in the US-Iran diplomatic process intensified on Tuesday as uncertainty deepened over whether Tehran would formally join the second round of “Islamabad Peace Talks,” even as the ceasefire deadline approaches.
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Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said Islamabad was still awaiting a formal response from Iran regarding participation in the talks, stressing that Pakistan remained in constant contact with all stakeholders as part of its diplomatic efforts.
The United States, however, expressed confidence that negotiations would proceed, while senior Iranian officials signalled that participation was still under review amid ongoing tensions. Reports indicated that the two-week ceasefire is set to expire early on April 22, raising pressure on all sides to reach a decision.
US President Donald Trump reiterated that Washington would not extend the ceasefire and warned of military action if a deal was not reached, while also maintaining that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons capability.
At the same time, both diplomatic uncertainty and military tensions escalated. Reports of maritime interdictions, tanker seizures, and renewed rhetoric from Washington and Tehran further complicated the fragile situation. Iranian authorities condemned US actions in the Gulf region, while insisting they would defend their national interests.
Meanwhile, oil markets reacted to the shifting diplomatic signals, with prices declining slightly on expectations that renewed negotiations could ease supply risks. However, analysts warned that volatility would continue until the outcome of the talks becomes clear.
Pakistan has continued efforts to facilitate dialogue, with preparations underway in Islamabad for a possible high-level US delegation visit, though Iran has yet to confirm its participation. Officials say the situation remains fluid, with both diplomatic engagement and military posturing continuing in parallel.
As the ceasefire deadline nears, the success or failure of the Islamabad talks is seen as critical not only for regional stability but also for global energy markets and geopolitical balance.
