Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi began a tour yesterday that includes Pakistan, Russia, and Oman, reestablishing connections with allies as tensions with Washington approach the third month.
The fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran remains intact. Yet, significant obstacles persist to achieving a lasting agreement between the conflicting factions.
Araghchi engaged in discussions with political leaders in Pakistan early Saturday, including the army chief – Asim Munir – who has taken on the position of principal negotiator between the US and Iran. Tehran has not revealed the duration of Araghchi’s visit to Islamabad.
Following a diplomatic press in Pakistan, Araghchi will arrive in Moscow and Muscat.
Russian President Vladimir Putin remains a loyal supporter of Tehran – even proposing to protect Iran’s enriched uranium.
In February, ministers from the Omani government conveyed messages between officials from the US and Iran to aid indirect nuclear discussions – prior to the US-Israeli attacks leading to renewed violence.
It’s difficult to determine if this new series of discussions in Islamabad will lead to positive outcomes or result in yet another deadlock.
Despite White House officials set to visit Pakistan on Saturday, semi-official state media in Iran has refuted claims that Araghchi intends to hold talks with the US.
According to two administration officials who spoke to Xenix News, US Vice President JD Vance and Iran’s parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the heads of the US and Iranian delegations at the recent talks, are not planning to attend.
About the Author
