Iran, US Reopen Backchannel Talks Through Pakistan As Standoff Continues

As tensions persist between Iran and the United States, both sides appear to be cautiously reopening lines of communication through indirect channels, even as formal talks remain suspended.

A delegation from Tehran arrived in Pakistan, while a US team is expected to follow, indicating renewed diplomatic manoeuvring.

The second round of direct negotiations failed to materialise after Iran declined participation, prompting efforts to revive dialogue through intermediaries.

Tehran has reportedly opted for indirect engagement, potentially using Pakistani officials as go-betweens, similar to earlier attempts in Geneva facilitated by Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad as part of consultations involving regional partners. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei clarified that no direct meeting with US officials is planned.

On the US side, negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are expected in Pakistan. Senior figures like JD Vance and Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf will not attend, though Vance remains on standby.

Despite a ceasefire announced and later extended by US President Donald Trump, tensions remain high.

Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, while the US has imposed a blockade on Iranian ports. Both nations have reportedly seized ships, including one en route to India.

Internal divisions within Iran have also surfaced, with moderates like Araghchi suggesting de-escalation, only for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to reverse course.

Russia, however, continues to support Tehran diplomatically and materially, potentially influencing its next steps.

Also Read: Japan Plans Alternative Oil Routes To Cut Dependence On Hormuz Passage