WASHINGTON: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, has reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran, stressing that meaningful diplomacy requires patience amid rising regional tensions.
In an interview aired on Tuesday, Ambassador Sheikh said Pakistan remains ready to “provide every possible facilitation for fruitful dialogue,” while emphasising that the responsibility for progress ultimately lies with the parties involved.
“Pakistan can act as a facilitator, but it is up to the conflicting sides to create the conditions necessary for negotiations and take the decisions needed to make them successful,” he said.
Describing the situation as highly complex, the ambassador noted that the conflict involves multiple political, economic, and regional dimensions.
“We recognise this is not an easy process. It is a complicated issue with many moving parts,” he said, adding that Pakistan appreciates the trust shown by both sides in its role as a mediator.
He also pointed to Pakistan’s long-standing tradition of diplomacy, referencing its historical role in bridging divides between global powers.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is visiting China on a one-day trip aimed at advancing ongoing peace efforts.
Ambassador Sheikh said Pakistan’s offer to mediate between Washington and Tehran is driven by broader regional interests and is being pursued in coordination with key partners.
“Our efforts are in good faith and involve regional stakeholders. We are hopeful of creating a conducive environment for dialogue,” he said.
However, he underscored that diplomacy is a gradual process. “Sustainable peace can only be achieved through negotiation and continued engagement,” he added.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. US President Donald Trump has issued strong warnings to Iran, including statements targeting its economic infrastructure. At the same time, he has indicated that “serious discussions” are underway with Iranian officials and claimed progress in efforts to end military operations.
Trump has also called for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, warning of consequences if the demand is not met.
Shortly afterward, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that reopening the Strait is part of broader efforts but not a primary objective. She outlined key US goals as weakening Iran’s naval and missile capabilities, curbing its regional influence, and preventing it from acquiring nuclear weapons — an allegation Tehran denies.
Analysts suggest the US administration retains flexibility to declare its objectives achieved at any point, reflecting the fluid and unpredictable nature of the conflict.
Pakistan’s diplomatic initiative has also received support from within the United States.
Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke praised Islamabad’s role in hosting peace efforts and advancing proposals for Middle East stability. Similarly, Congressman Jack Bergman, co-chair of the Congressional Pakistan Caucus, described Pakistan’s involvement as critical for long-term regional stability and highlighted the importance of strong partnerships.
Observers note that Pakistan’s position as a neutral facilitator could strengthen its diplomatic standing with both Washington and Tehran, offering a rare platform for dialogue amid escalating tensions.
Ambassador Sheikh’s remarks reinforce Islamabad’s broader strategy of promoting dialogue over confrontation as the only viable path to lasting peace in an increasingly volatile region.
Over the weekend, Pakistan hosted a four-country meeting involving Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt, where foreign ministers emphasised de-escalation and the need for structured negotiations.
Following the meeting, Ishaq Dar indicated that Pakistan could soon host direct talks between the United States and Iran aimed at achieving a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the conflict.
Pakistan has since emerged as a central player in mediation efforts, working alongside regional partners, with officials confirming that indirect communication between Washington and Tehran continues through diplomatic channels facilitated by Islamabad.