Israel removed Iranian FM Abbas Araqchi from target list at Pakistan’s request, Reuters reports

Israel reportedly removed Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf from its strike list following a request from Pakistan, a Pakistani official told Reuters on Thursday.

“The Israelis had planned to target them, but we informed the U.S. that eliminating both would leave no Iranian officials available for dialogue,” the official said. “Following this, Washington intervened and asked Israel to stand down.”

Pakistan offers to mediate US-Iran talks amid Middle East tensions

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday had highlighted Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s offer to mediate between Washington and Tehran as efforts to end the Middle East conflict intensify. Sharif stated that Pakistan “welcomes and fully supports ongoing efforts to pursue dialogue” and is ready to host negotiations if both sides agree. He described Islamabad’s role as facilitating “meaningful and conclusive talks for a comprehensive settlement” of the crisis.

The Pakistani foreign office confirmed that the country remains committed to resolving the conflict through diplomacy, with some engagements conducted quietly. While Iran has denied that direct negotiations are occurring, US officials have indicated that indirect discussions are underway amid rising military tensions. Trump’s amplification of Sharif’s offer signals growing recognition of Pakistan’s potential role in de-escalation.

Backchannel diplomacy has also included a reported call between Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and Trump, though the White House stressed that negotiations are sensitive and no formal talks have been scheduled. Analysts note Pakistan is trying to maintain a careful balance between ties with the US, Iran, and Gulf allies, positioning itself as a neutral intermediary while avoiding direct involvement in the ongoing conflict.