No Iran–US talks planned, Tehran says engagement will go through Pakistan as delegation arrives

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad on Friday with a senior delegation, as Pakistan emerges as a key intermediary in efforts to revive stalled Iran–US diplomatic engagement.

However, Tehran has made it clear that no direct talks with Washington are planned at this stage. Iranian officials said Araghchi’s visit is focused on high-level consultations with Pakistani leadership and advancing indirect diplomatic communication channels. He is expected to meet Shehbaz Sharif and other senior officials, including Pakistan’s military leadership, during the trip.

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed the arrival of the Iranian delegation, sharing images of their reception in Islamabad alongside senior Pakistani officials.

Despite the diplomatic activity, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei reiterated that there will be no direct Iran–US meeting. Instead, Pakistan will convey Tehran’s positions and concerns to Washington through indirect channels as part of its mediation role.

The development comes amid renewed but cautious efforts by Islamabad to facilitate dialogue between the two sides. While no formal negotiations have been confirmed, Pakistan is actively positioning itself as a bridge between Tehran and Washington.

Reports also suggest that US diplomatic figures, including special envoy Steve Witkoff, may visit Islamabad for discussions related to the broader diplomatic track, though the format remains indirect.

US President Donald Trump has indicated that Iran may be preparing a proposal to address US demands, but said details are still unclear. He reiterated that any potential agreement would hinge on major concessions, including issues linked to nuclear activity and regional maritime security.

For now, diplomacy remains indirect and fragile, with Pakistan playing a central mediating role while Iran firmly rules out any direct engagement with the United States.