US-Iran second round of talks: No direct talks as Tehran, Washington engagement via Pakistan
US-Iran second round of talks: As a second round of talks on the West Asia conflict is set to begin in Islamabad, Iran has said it will not hold any direct meetings with the United States. Instead, it will share its position through Pakistan, which is acting as a mediator.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has arrived in Islamabad with a senior team, signalling fresh diplomatic efforts after earlier talks did not succeed. Pakistan is now playing a bigger role in trying to ease tensions between Tehran and Washington.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei confirmed the visit, saying Araghchi will meet top Pakistani officials as part of mediation efforts. He described the conflict as an “American-imposed war” and said the aim of the visit is to help bring peace. He also made it clear that no meeting with the US is planned, and Iran’s message will be passed on through Pakistan.
“We arrive in Islamabad, Pakistan, for an official visit. FM Araghchi will be meeting with Pakistani high-level officials in concert with their ongoing mediation & good offices for ending American imposed war of aggression and the restitution of peace in our region. No meeting is planned to take place between Iran and the U.S. Iran’s observations would be conveyed to Pakistan," said Baqaei.
Iranian analyst Seyed Mohammad Marandi also said Araghchi will not meet anyone from the Trump administration during the visit. According to him, the purpose of the trip is only to communicate Iran’s views on how the conflict can end.
He also dismissed reports of possible direct talks between Iran and the US, claiming such reports are being spread by the White House and American media to later blame Iran and justify further action.
- With inputs from agencies
