Iran's Araghchi meets Pakistan's foreign minister, army chief amid Iran–US mediation push

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir in Islamabad on Saturday as Pakistan stepped up efforts to facilitate the second round of talks between Tehran and Washington.

Pakistan’s Foreign Office said Araghchi was received by senior officials upon arrival on late Friday, and will hold further meetings focused on regional developments and efforts to promote stability.

Officials said the visit is aimed at discussing security cooperation and exploring diplomatic pathways amid ongoing regional tensions.

'No meeting with US'

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said in a post on X that Araghchi’s visit is part of official consultations with Pakistan.

“We arrive in Islamabad, Pakistan, for an official visit,” Baqaei wrote. He said meetings would focus on “ongoing mediation & good offices” aimed at ending what he described as “American-imposed war of aggression.”

He added that no Iran–US meeting is planned in Islamabad and that Iran’s positions would be conveyed to Pakistan.

Pakistan positions itself as facilitator

Islamabad has increasingly sought to play a mediating role between Iran and the United States, encouraging indirect engagement as tensions persist in the region.

Pakistani officials said Araghchi is expected to meet members of a domestic mediation team and present Iran’s position on possible frameworks for talks.

Security in the capital was tightened ahead of the visit, particularly around key government and diplomatic zones.

Diplomatic backdrop remains volatile

The meetings come amid reports of renewed diplomatic activity involving Iran and the United States, including exploratory contacts aimed at restarting stalled negotiations.

While no breakthrough has been announced, officials describe Pakistan’s role as focused on encouraging dialogue and de-escalation.

Pakistan has historically maintained relations with both Tehran and Washington and has repeatedly called for resolving disputes through diplomatic engagement rather than confrontation.