Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, is scheduled to visit Tehran on Monday to further efforts aimed at establishing peace and security in the region, announced Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei on Sunday.
Pakistan has assumed a mediator role in the ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington, which seek to resolve the conflict triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year. The government led by Shehbaz Sharif successfully brokered a two-week ceasefire on April 8, ending six weeks of hostilities, and continues to facilitate communication between the two sides.
Two Pakistani government officials confirmed Munir’s upcoming visit. One official noted that direct contact between Iran and Pakistan remains active, while another indicated that the discussions will also focus on recent developments, including US President Donald Trump’s threats of intensified sanctions against Iran.
“Field Marshal Munir will address peace initiatives under Islamabad’s memorandum of understanding, Trump’s warnings, the aftermath of the Pakistan-Turkey-Saudi Arabia agreement, and Houthi-related issues with Iranian leaders,” the source explained.
This visit takes place amid escalating tensions, as Iran warns of a military response to the US’s planned sanctions, which could further strain the country’s already fragile economy. The announcement detailing these sanctions, described by US officials as potentially “the toughest in history,” is expected on Monday.
President Trump has cautioned that any nation providing support to Iran would face severe economic repercussions as part of efforts to isolate the Islamic Republic. Meanwhile, oil shipments through the strategic Strait of Hormuz have nearly halted, with Tehran threatening to target unauthorized tankers attempting passage. Iran’s economy continues to suffer under the weight of existing sanctions.
The first direct talks between the US and Iran took place in Islamabad on April 11 and 12, following the ceasefire brokered by Pakistan. Although these negotiations concluded without a formal agreement, the dialogue remains ongoing. Pakistan has stepped up its diplomatic engagement, exemplified by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s visit to Tehran in August, where he met with Iranian President Masood Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.