Pakistan’s diplomatic marathon: FM Dar briefs regional allies after US–Iran Talks end without deal

WEB DESK: In a flurry of high-stakes diplomacy, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, has held urgent telephonic consultations with his counterparts in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye.

The outreach follows the conclusion of the “Islamabad Talks” between Washington and Tehran, which ended early Sunday morning without a formal agreement, according to Pakistan Today.

Despite the lack of a breakthrough, Islamabad has doubled down on its role as a regional mediator. According to the Foreign Office, FM Dar used the calls to share progress from the negotiations and to reiterate the critical necessity of maintaining ceasefire commitments to prevent further escalation in the Middle East.

Mediation efforts amidst regional volatility

The negotiations in Islamabad were seen as a pivotal attempt to de-escalate a conflict that ignited on 28 February, following military strikes by the US and Israel on Iran.

The ensuing volatility has not only destabilised the region but triggered a global fuel crisis. During his discussion with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, FM Dar underscored that while a final deal remains elusive, Pakistan’s resolve to support sustained dialogue is unwavering.

A similar sentiment was shared with Egyptian Foreign Minister Dr Badr Abdelatty. Mr Dar emphasised that it remains “imperative” for all parties to uphold the current ceasefire.

This diplomatic push comes at a sensitive time, following President Donald Trump’s recent ultimatum to Tehran regarding the Strait of Hormuz a vital energy corridor which has significantly raised the stakes for international maritime security.

Turkish praise and the path forward

In a notable show of regional support, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan commended Pakistan’s facilitation of the dialogue between the United States and Iran.

During his call with FM Dar, Mr Fidan reaffirmed Turkiye’s support for the peace process and extended an official invitation for the Pakistani Foreign Minister to attend the upcoming Antalya Diplomacy Forum.

Pakistan’s positioning as a bridge between the West and Tehran has been a cornerstone of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s foreign policy since the conflict began.

While Iran has reportedly rejected recent US proposals in favour of a permanent end to hostilities and sanctions relief, Islamabad continues to urge patience.

With the global community watching closely, Pakistan remains at the centre of a complex diplomatic web, striving to convert a fragile ceasefire into a lasting regional peace.