Pakistan, Iran explore fresh talks with US in China-initiated push: Report

Pakistan is actively exploring a path to restart stalled talks between the United States and Iran, aiming to end their nearly five-month conflict. This diplomatic initiative is reportedly driven by China, according to three Pakistani sources.

Exploratory discussions took place during Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni's recent visits to Islamabad. Momeni, considered close to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, met with Pakistani government officials and army chief Asim Munir. However, the sources cautioned that significant obstacles remain before any talks with the U.S. can materialize.

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The Chinese are unhappy because Iran's attacks on other Gulf states and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz are hitting their interests.

Pakistan finds itself in a delicate geopolitical position. The country recently condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, a close ally with whom Pakistan has a mutual defense treaty and relies on for financial support. Appearing too receptive to Iranian arguments could alienate Riyadh.

Simultaneously, Pakistan is heavily dependent on China, a key financial backer with significant economic interests in stabilizing West Asian trade routes. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar discussed the new mediation effort with Chinese officials during a recent visit to Beijing. China's Foreign Ministry confirmed its support for mediation efforts by Pakistan and other parties, citing concerns that Iran's actions are impacting Chinese interests.

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China supports the mediation efforts made by Pakistan and other parties.