Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is currently in Iran to engage in discussions centered on regional security, stability, and bilateral relations, reaffirming Pakistan’s dedication to countering obstacles to the US-Iran dialogue. During his visit, Naqvi held separate meetings with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and other senior officials. He delivered a special message from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir to the Iranian president.
A Foreign Office spokesperson highlighted that Naqvi’s talks focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, promoting regional security and stability, and encouraging constructive engagement among regional parties amid ongoing developments. Pakistan is actively striving to facilitate the resumption of negotiations between the US and Iran, aiming to pave the way for peace and stability through the Islamabad memorandum of understanding (MoU).
Furthermore, Pakistan remains committed to neutralizing disruptive elements through both direct and indirect channels to maintain constructive dialogue and resolve outstanding issues. Pakistan and Qatar have played pivotal roles as mediators in the Middle East conflict, which has resulted in thousands of casualties, primarily in Iran and Lebanon, following US and Israeli attacks on Iran since February 28.
Naqvi’s visit coincides with recent US and Houthi attacks on shipping routes, complicating prospects for ending the Middle East conflict. Tehran has warned that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed unless Washington meets its conditions. These attacks in the Gulf of Oman near the strait and at the Red Sea entrance—both critical global oil transit points—underscore the ongoing volatility in the region.
In a related development, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif expressed optimism on Tuesday, suggesting that the US and Iran are nearing a form of agreement. Qatar, also a key mediator, indicated that discussions on managing the Strait of Hormuz have reached an advanced stage. Asif told Bloomberg News that recent signals suggest progress toward a peace arrangement or deal is underway.
Separately, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar condemned a Houthi attack on a commercial vessel that resulted in the deaths of at least three Pakistani nationals and injuries to another. In a statement on X, DPM Dar denounced the attack, emphasizing that such acts endanger innocent lives, violate international law, and threaten maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.
He added that the government is coordinating with Saudi authorities and Yemen’s internationally recognized government to gather more information about the incident. DPM Dar has also instructed the Pakistani embassy in Riyadh to liaise with relevant officials to facilitate the repatriation of the deceased and provide all necessary assistance to the injured Pakistani national.
