Signs of possible breakthrough emerge in US–Iran talks

Pakistani mediators are optimistic about a potential major breakthrough on the nuclear front between the United States and Iran, with Pakistan playing an increasingly central mediating role in efforts to bridge differences over key issues in the conflict.

Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir arrived in Tehran on April 15 leading a delegation reportedly carrying messages linked to ongoing negotiations and coordination efforts for a second round of US–Iran talks. Al Jazeera reported, citing sources, that Pakistani mediators are cautiously optimistic about the possibility of a breakthrough, particularly on nuclear-related terms, although officials warned that opposition exists on all sides.

“There appears to be some agreement in the making, but we’ve been cautioned that there are detractors on all sides,” Al Jazeera correspondent Osama Bin Javaid said, reporting from Doha.

Mediators are said to be focusing on three major sticking points: Iran’s nuclear programme, control of the Strait of Hormuz, and compensation for wartime damages. Sources involved in the process described early indications of movement on the nuclear issue, which is seen as the most significant obstacle to a broader agreement.

Pakistani diplomatic sources also said that discussions between Washington and Tehran could soon resume, although no date or venue has yet been confirmed for a second round of talks following an initial meeting in Islamabad that ended without a deal.

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry separately stated that both the United States and Iran are preparing for further negotiations in the near future, while noting that logistical details remain under discussion. It also said that Lebanon is included in a separate, temporary ceasefire arrangement currently in place, adding that “peace in Lebanon is essential for peace talks.”

By Sabina Mammadli