ISLAMABAD: The momentum surrounding Iran–United States negotiations has slowed significantly, with diplomatic attention shifting away from Islamabad, even as Pakistan continues to play a quiet but strategic role in backchannel efforts.
US–Iran Conflict Talks Stall as Trump Rejects Tehran Proposal, Oil Prices Surge Amid Hormuz Crisis
According to diplomatic sources, Pakistan had twice recently come close to facilitating another round of talks between Donald Trump and Iranian officials following a temporary ceasefire agreement reached weeks earlier. However, disagreements over preconditions—particularly Iran’s demand for easing the US naval blockade—prevented progress.
Since then, formal negotiations have stalled, and backchannel diplomacy has taken precedence. Despite being out of the spotlight, Islamabad remains an important behind-the-scenes facilitator in communication between the two sides.
Reports indicate that Iran previously conveyed a proposal to Washington through Pakistan, suggesting a phased approach to ending the conflict. The plan reportedly prioritised reopening the Strait of Hormuz before addressing broader issues such as Iran’s nuclear programme. The United States, however, rejected the proposal, insisting on a comprehensive “all-in-one” agreement covering all disputed issues simultaneously.
Iran has maintained that a step-by-step framework is necessary, while Washington argues that partial concessions—such as lifting maritime restrictions—could weaken its negotiating leverage.
In a recent statement, President Trump claimed Iran had described itself as being in a “state of collapse” and expressed urgency regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran has not officially confirmed these remarks.
Despite the breakdown in formal talks, diplomatic activity continues through indirect channels. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has visited Oman, Russia, and Pakistan multiple times, while also engaging with regional counterparts in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, and France.
Russia has signalled willingness to assist in mediation efforts, while Oman has reportedly shown reluctance toward Iran’s proposal for joint control of the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, regional geopolitical shifts are also unfolding. Gulf states recently held emergency consultations over the crisis, even as energy markets and alliances remain under strain.
In a separate development, the United Arab Emirates announced its exit from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, a move analysts say could reshape global oil supply dynamics. The UAE, one of the bloc’s largest producers, had previously expressed dissatisfaction with production limits restricting output expansion.
Experts warn that such changes could increase volatility in global oil markets, even as some consumers may benefit from higher supply competition. However, broader concerns remain about a potential restructuring of regional energy governance and security frameworks in the post-conflict era.
While the Iran–US diplomatic track has slowed, officials and observers say the process has not fully collapsed, with Pakistan still playing a discreet but important role in maintaining communication channels between the two sides.
