ISLAMABAD:
Pakistan is quietly preparing for a possible high-stakes meeting between the United States and Iran in the federal capital, in what could mark a significant diplomatic opening aimed at ending the ongoing Middle East conflict, even though Tehran reportedly rejected Washington’s 15-point proposal shared through Islamabad.
An unprecedented level of secrecy surrounds possible negotiations in which, according to several international reports, US Vice President JD Vance and other senior officials could participate. The exact timeline, location and participants remain fluid, reflecting the sensitivity of the initiative.
The Express PK Press Club contacted relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but officials declined to provide details, citing the confidential nature of the matter. The veil of secrecy is so tight that even some diplomats who would generally be aware of such developments appear to be excluded.
“This is an extremely sensitive issue. Revealing details at this stage could undermine the very essence of discreet diplomacy,” a senior foreign ministry official told The Express PK Press Club on condition of anonymity.
Amid growing speculation, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi called for restraint, warning the media against disclosing unverified information. “Many media outlets are spreading speculation/rumors about the ongoing Middle East/Persian Gulf conflict with false information about Pakistan.”
“I respectfully reiterate that diplomacy and negotiations require discretion and confidentiality. The media is therefore requested to refrain from speculation and await official announcements on any decision or outcome,” he added.
The diplomatic activity follows a series of contradictory 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 Pakistan.
Two senior Islamabad officials confirmed to AFP that the plan to end hostilities that have spread across the Gulf had been passed to Iran via Pakistan.
Pakistan’s role as a potential mediator stems from its long-standing ties to Tehran and Washington, as well as its strategic positioning in the region. Officials say Islamabad has actively facilitated indirect communication between the two sides.
According to CNN, officials from US President Donald Trump’s administration are working to arrange a meeting in Pakistan as early as this weekend to explore a possible exit from the war. The report suggests that Vice President JD Vance could visit Pakistan, alongside other senior officials, although plans remain subject to change.
Sources close to the discussions say security considerations have also led to alternative options, with Turkey emerging as a possible venue for the talks.
While Pakistan has played a key intermediary role, regional players such as Turkey are also engaged in parallel diplomatic efforts.
Discussions about the proposed meeting are expected to continue at 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 that could shape the trajectory of a widening regional conflict, if it materializes.
