Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi outlined Tehran’s demands and objections to US positions during high-level talks in Islamabad on Saturday, as Pakistan hosted renewed diplomatic efforts to end a prolonged conflict that has caused major human and economic losses globally.
Araqchi met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other senior Pakistani officials during his visit. The development came amid reports of possible US engagement in Islamabad, though Iran has denied holding direct talks with Washington.
The US and Iran remain locked in a standoff, with tensions over energy routes and sanctions. Iran has restricted movement in the Strait of Hormuz, while the US continues to block Iranian oil exports, contributing to global market instability.
Araqchi reiterated Iran’s “principled stance” on the ceasefire process and ending what he called an imposed war. An Iranian diplomatic source said Tehran would not accept “maximalist demands” from the US.
US officials said Iran still has an opportunity for a deal if it makes verifiable commitments on its nuclear programme. Iran, however, maintained it is not engaging in direct talks, with Pakistan acting as a mediator. The conflict continues to impact global energy prices and trade flows.
