LONDON: Pakistan is relaying messages between the United States and Iran as part of indirect talks to end the ongoing Middle East conflict, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on Thursday, in the first official confirmation of Islamabad’s mediating role.
“There has been unnecessary speculation in the media regarding peace talks,” Dar said in a statement posted on X. “In reality, US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan.”
He added that Washington had shared a 15-point proposal with Tehran, which is currently under consideration by Iranian authorities.
There has been unnecessary speculation in the media regarding peace talks to end ongoing conflict in the Middle East. In reality, US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan. In this context, the United States has shared 15 points, being…
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) March 26, 2026
Dar said that countries including Turkiye and Egypt were also supporting the initiative, stressing that Pakistan remained committed to promoting peace and stability.
“Dialogue and diplomacy is the only way forward,” he said.
The remarks mark the first time Islamabad has publicly confirmed its role in facilitating communication between Washington and Tehran since the conflict began on Feb. 28.
Two senior Pakistani officials told AFP that the US proposal had been conveyed to Iran through Pakistani intermediaries and consists of 15 points aimed at halting the war.
Pakistan has emerged as a key intermediary due to its close ties with neighbouring Iran, as well as its relations with the United States and Gulf Arab states. Officials say Islamabad has maintained direct contact with both sides and has offered to host potential talks.
Senior officials added that Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir, has also been involved in diplomatic efforts and recently held discussions with US President Donald Trump.
A Pakistani source familiar with the discussions told Reuters that Israel had recently removed Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf from a potential target list following Pakistani intervention.
The Wall Street Journal earlier reported that the two officials had been temporarily removed from the list as diplomatic options were explored, citing US officials.
Iranian officials have publicly denied that negotiations are taking place with Washington, but have acknowledged that “friendly countries” are conveying messages between the two sides.
