ISLAMABAD/TEHRAN May 18, 2026 — Iran’s Foreign Ministry has stated that indirect diplomatic negotiations with the United States remain active, with Pakistan continuing to serve as the primary mediator.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei confirmed that talks are progressing through backchannel communications facilitated by Pakistani officials. Revised proposals and messages are being exchanged between Tehran and Washington as efforts continue to de-escalate tensions stemming from the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region.
Pakistan has played a central role in these efforts for several weeks, hosting multiple rounds of indirect talks in Islamabad and relaying proposals between the two sides. This mediation comes amid a fragile ceasefire, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, and recent incidents such as a drone attack on a UAE nuclear facility.
Background on the Negotiations
- Pakistan’s Unique Position: Islamabad has leveraged its diplomatic ties with both nations — maintaining longstanding relations with the US while preserving communication channels with Iran — to act as a trusted intermediary. Pakistani leaders, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and military officials, have actively shuttled proposals.
- Key Issues: Discussions focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz for safe maritime traffic, sanctions relief for Iran, nuclear-related assurances, and a potential permanent ceasefire to end hostilities that have impacted global oil flows and regional stability.
- Recent Developments: Iran has delivered responses to US proposals via Pakistan in recent days. While progress has been reported in some areas, significant gaps remain, and both sides have expressed frustration over delays.
US President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Pakistan’s mediation role despite some domestic criticism, describing Pakistani leaders as “great” and expressing optimism for a deal.
Analysts note that while Pakistan’s involvement has kept dialogue alive, deep mistrust between Washington and Tehran, coupled with external factors like recent military incidents, continues to complicate a breakthrough. Some observers question the sustainability of the mediation given Pakistan’s own regional alliances and internal pressures.
No timeline has been set for the next formal round of talks, but diplomatic sources indicate that indirect exchanges through Islamabad are expected to continue in the coming days.
This story is developing. Updates will follow as more details emerge from official statements in Tehran, Islamabad, and Washington.
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