Dar says Pakistan relaying messages in US-Iran backchannel talks

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on Thursday that indirect communication between the United States and Iran is ongoing, with Pakistan acting as a conduit for exchanging messages.

In a statement on social media, Dar dismissed speculation about formal peace negotiations, clarifying that there are no direct talks currently underway. Instead, he said both sides are communicating through intermediaries, with Pakistan conveying messages between them. According to him, Washington has shared a 15-point proposal that is now under consideration in Tehran.

He added that several friendly countries, including Turkiye and Egypt, are also supporting efforts aimed at reducing tensions. Emphasising Islamabad’s role, Dar said Pakistan remains committed to promoting peace and stability in the region, stressing that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path forward.

Proposal under review amid mixed signals

Dar’s remarks come a day after Iranian officials acknowledged that Pakistan had passed on a US proposal aimed at ending the conflict. While details have not been officially confirmed, reports suggest the plan focuses on limiting Iran’s nuclear and missile programmes, curbing support for regional allies, and ensuring the reopening of key maritime routes.

In return, the proposal is said to include the lifting of sanctions and international assistance for Iran’s civilian nuclear energy sector.

However, Iranian state media reported that Tehran had initially responded negatively, with officials insisting that any decision to end the conflict would depend on Iran’s own terms. These reportedly include a complete halt to hostilities, guarantees against future aggression, compensation for damages, and recognition of Iran’s authority over strategic waterways.

Despite the initial response, officials have indicated that the proposal is still being reviewed and has not been entirely rejected.

Continued diplomacy and cautious optimism

The White House has maintained that backchannel engagement remains ongoing. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described the exchanges as “productive” while noting that some reported details of the proposal may not be entirely accurate.

She also suggested that Iran’s military capabilities are weakening, claiming the country may be seeking a way to de-escalate the conflict.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to host formal negotiations if both sides agree. He described Islamabad as “ready and honoured” to facilitate meaningful talks aimed at reaching a comprehensive settlement.

As diplomatic efforts continue behind closed doors, Pakistan’s role as an intermediary appears to be gaining prominence, even as uncertainty remains over whether the ongoing exchanges can lead to a formal breakthrough.