Islamabad Talks: one side of picture the other is yet to come!

On the surface, the formal negotiations between two major adversaries, mediated by Pakistan, have concluded. However, in my assessment, these talks have not ended; rather, they mark the dawn of a new era of hope. This process has initiated a formal, face-to-face dialogue the first of its kind allowing both sides to explore new avenues and build mutual understanding.

There was a time, not long ago, when the world watched in horror as the Middle East was engulfed in conflict. Reports were streaming in of relentless drone and missile strikes across Gulf nations, sparking deep resentment among Arab states. The scale of destruction within Iran, following retaliatory strikes by the US and Israel, was equally catastrophic. The potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the subsequent collapse of regional economic stability were scenarios that sent shivers down the spine of the global community.

As populations worldwide grappled with anxiety, surging inflation, and the consequences of unrest, peace loving nations like Pakistan remained deeply unsettled. Islamabad was resolute: the region could not be allowed to succumb to a total conflagration. In this critical hour, Pakistan’s initiative to extend a hand of mediation and successfully bring the United States and Iran to the historic negotiating table was an extraordinary achievement.

For the past few days, the world’s collective gaze was fixed on Islamabad, searching for a path toward peace. Following 21 hours of intense deliberations, the US Vice President expressed his profound gratitude for Pakistan’s hospitality. He explicitly acknowledged that Pakistan played a pivotal role in helping both nations move closer to a potential resolution. While he expressed regret that a final, comprehensive treaty was not reached during this round, he remained optimistic about future breakthroughs. Vice President JD Vance remarked, “We are departing with a final, best offer for Iran, and we now await their response”.

Simultaneously, the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, lauded Pakistan’s constructive role. Tehran expressed its sincere thanks for Pakistan’s hosting of the talks and its tireless efforts to move the dialogue forward. The Iranian delegation noted that while consensus was reached on numerous points, a final agreement remained elusive due to disagreements on two critical issues. In my view, these sticking points likely revolve around the nuclear program and the operational control of the Strait of Hormuz, as Iranian sources have long maintained they will not accept US oversight of the strategic waterway.

Representing the Pakistani government, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar stated that both nations responded positively to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s personal request for dialogue. He described the multiple rounds of talks as “comprehensive and constructive”. The Deputy Prime Minister, alongside Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, provided critical facilitation throughout the process.

Dar voiced his hope that both nations would move forward with a positive mindset for the sake of global and regional stability, noting that Pakistan remains committed to its role as a facilitator. Most importantly, it is imperative that both parties uphold their commitment to the ongoing ceasefire.

In my final analysis, nothing has been lost. This round provided a vital opportunity to navigate technical complexities and clarify key positions. Pakistan has emerged on the global stage as a preeminent force for peace. This moment reinforces the fact that Pakistan does not merely raise its voice against regional sabotage and terrorism, but proves through its actions that it will leave no stone unturned in working with its partners to build a greater, more prosperous region.