Iran FM Araghchi holds talks with Pakistani FM, CDF: Iranian media

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi held separate telephone conversations with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, as well as Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir, as regional diplomacy continues to gain momentum amid ongoing ceasefire arrangements.

According to official Iranian media, the discussions focused on recent regional developments, the status of the ceasefire, and efforts being made by Islamabad to facilitate a second round of talks between Iran and the United States. The engagements reflect continued coordination between the neighbouring countries on evolving security and diplomatic issues.

The calls come at a time when Pakistan is actively engaged in supporting dialogue between Tehran and Washington following a fragile ceasefire framework that has been repeatedly extended to allow space for negotiations. Earlier rounds of talks between Iran and the US were held in Islamabad but ended without agreement, despite mediation efforts.

US President Donald Trump signalled he was under no pressure to end the conflict. “I have all the time in the world, but Iran doesn’t – the clock is ticking!” Trump wrote on social media.

Trump also warned that US forces would destroy any vessel laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating pressure on Iran to reopen the vital shipping route, which Washington has sought to control through a military blockade.

Iranian officials and analysts pushed back on US claims, with analyst Hassan Ahmadian saying the US move was not an economic blockade but a cover to reposition forces for a potential new phase of conflict.

Iran’s leadership has also rejected Trump’s assertions of internal divisions. President Masoud Pezeshkian, parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei issued coordinated statements emphasising unity.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei said national cohesion had “fractured the enemy” and warned against psychological warfare aimed at undermining public morale.

Former US ambassador to Bahrain Adam Ereli said Iran could withstand prolonged pressure, noting Tehran’s ability to store or reroute oil exports, potentially outlasting both US political will and domestic support.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil supplies, has become a focal point of the standoff, raising concerns over energy security and the risk of further escalation. Regional diplomacy has intensified in recent weeks as stakeholders seek to stabilise tensions and keep communication channels open, with Pakistan positioning itself as a facilitator in ongoing discussions aimed at preventing further escalation.