Iran interior minister Momeni visits Pakistan amid escalating war

Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni arrived in Islamabad on Monday with a high-level delegation for talks on bilateral relations, border security and regional cooperation. The visit comes as fighting between Iran and the United States intensifies. Diplomatic efforts have continued through mediators throughout the conflict.

Why is Iran's interior minister visiting Pakistan?

Momeni's visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties, border security and regional cooperation between Pakistan and Iran. It comes as Tehran fights an intensifying conflict with the United States while pursuing diplomatic contacts through mediators. Pakistan has been involved in regional mediation efforts, though a Pakistani Interior Ministry source did not confirm whether mediation features on Momeni's agenda.

Who welcomed Momeni in Islamabad?

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi received Momeni at Islamabad International Airport. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry presented the visiting minister with a bouquet. Iran's Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, also welcomed the delegation on arrival.

Why are Iran and the United States fighting?

Iran's president said the country was fighting a "full-scale war" with the United States following expanded U.S. strikes across Iran, including a city hosting a nuclear power plant. Iran responded with attacks that the Revolutionary Guards said targeted sites in Bahrain, Jordan and Syria. Bahrain accused Tehran of targeting its air navigation systems.

The renewed conflict has pushed oil prices to a one month high, as both sides battle for control of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has reimposed a blockade of the strategic waterway, and the United States has responded by blockading Iranian ports. Despite the escalation, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said diplomatic contacts with Washington through mediators remain active.

Who is in the Iranian delegation?

The Iranian delegation includes the governor general of Sistan and Baluchestan province and Iran's deputy interior minister. It also includes the deputy minister for urban development and transport, the head of the National Iranian Oil Company, and the special representative of the minister of agriculture. Other senior officials are also travelling with Momeni.

During the visit, Momeni is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. The talks are expected to focus on bilateral relations, border management, regional security and areas of mutual cooperation.

What did Naqvi and Momeni say about the visit?

Welcoming the Iranian minister, Naqvi described Momeni as "my brother" and expressed confidence the visit would strengthen bilateral ties. "I warmly welcome my brother to Pakistan. I hope Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni has brought good news, and I am confident that his visit will further strengthen Pakistan-Iran relations," Naqvi said, adding that both sides also expect progress on the regional situation.

Momeni said he was pleased to visit Pakistan again. "I am delighted to meet my brother Mohsin Naqvi again. Pakistan-Iran relations are exemplary, and I have always appreciated the hospitality extended by the government and people of Pakistan," he said. Naqvi said he was confident the visit would produce positive outcomes and further deepen cooperation between the two countries.