ISLAMABAD:
Pakistan is quietly preparing for a potential high-voltage meeting between the US and Iran in the federal capital, in what could mark a significant diplomatic opening aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, even as Tehran reportedly rejected Washington’s 15-point proposal shared through Islamabad.
An unprecedented level of secrecy surrounds the possible talks, which, according to several international reports, could be attended by US Vice President JD Vance and other senior officials. The exact timing, venue and participants remain fluid, reflecting the sensitivity of the initiative.
The Express Pakinomist approached relevant authorities, including the Ministry of External Affairs, but officials declined to provide any details citing the confidential nature of the matter. The veil of secrecy is so tight that even some diplomats, who would typically be privy to such developments, appear to be out of the loop.
“This is an extremely delicate matter. Revealing details at this stage could undermine the very essence of discreet diplomacy,” a senior official in the Ministry of External Affairs told The Express Pakinomist on condition of anonymity.
Amid mounting speculation, Foreign Ministry spokesman Tahir Andrabi called for restraint and warned the media against reporting unconfirmed information. “Many media outlets are carrying speculations/rumors about the ongoing conflict in the Middle East/Persian Gulf with false information about Pakistan.”
“I respectfully reiterate that diplomacy and negotiations require discretion and confidentiality. The media is therefore encouraged to refrain from speculation and to await official announcements of any decisions or outcomes,” he added.
The diplomatic activity follows a series of conflicting signals from Tehran. Iran initially denied any direct or indirect engagement with Washington, but later acknowledged receiving a 15-point proposal from the United States through Pakistani intermediaries.
Two senior officials in Islamabad confirmed to AFP that the plan, aimed at ending hostilities that have spread across the Gulf, had been conveyed to Iran via Pakistan.
Pakistan’s role as a potential broker stems from its longstanding ties to both Tehran and Washington, as well as its strategic positioning in the region. Officials say Islamabad has actively facilitated backchannel communications between the two sides.
According to CNN, officials in US President Donald Trump’s administration are working to arrange a meeting in Pakistan as early as this weekend to explore a possible off-ramp to the war. The report suggests that Vice President JD Vance could travel to Pakistan with other top officials, although plans remain subject to change.
Sources familiar with the discussions indicate that security concerns have also prompted alternative options, with Türkiye emerging as a possible venue for the talks.
While Pakistan has played a key intermediary role, regional actors such as Türkiye are also engaged in parallel diplomatic efforts.
Discussions about the proposed meeting are expected to continue in the White House, underscoring the fluid and evolving nature of the diplomatic push.
For now, Islamabad remains at the center of a quiet but potentially consequential effort, one that could shape the trajectory of a growing regional conflict if it materializes.
