Pakistan denies slowdown in mediation between US and Iran, says reports misrepresent facts as regional tensions escalate
April 4, 2026: Pakistan on Saturday dismissed reports claiming that its efforts to mediate between the United States and Iran had hit obstacles, calling them “baseless” and a “figment of imagination.” Foreign office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the controversy stemmed from a misinterpretation of a background briefing held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad. He urged media outlets to avoid speculation and rely only on official statements during a sensitive period of regional tensions.
Reports by The Wall Street Journal and Dawn had suggested that while initial progress was made in relaying messages between Washington and Tehran, momentum slowed due to Iran’s lack of response. Some claims indicated that Tehran was unwilling to engage with US-led delegations in Islamabad. However, Pakistani officials rejected these narratives, maintaining that diplomatic outreach remains active and ongoing.
Despite the speculation, Islamabad continues to engage with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, as it pushes for dialogue amid the escalating conflict in West Asia. The war, triggered by US-Israel strikes on Iran, has widened across the region, impacting global energy routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. While Pakistan has not yet secured a ceasefire, it has managed to avoid direct involvement while continuing its diplomatic efforts.