Diplomatic outreach continues despite renewed military escalation
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is intensifying diplomatic efforts to salvage the June 17 memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the United States and Iran after renewed military exchanges pushed the agreement into crisis.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed the MoU in Islamabad as a mediator, marking the culmination of weeks of negotiations aimed at extending a ceasefire and establishing a framework for long-term peace. However, less than a month later, renewed hostilities have cast doubt over the accord’s future.
The US launched fresh strikes on Iran this week, while Tehran responded with missile and drone attacks targeting multiple Gulf states. Despite the escalation, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said Pakistan, Qatar and Oman remain actively engaged in mediation efforts.
Pakistan has maintained diplomatic contact with both sides. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar recently spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, emphasizing dialogue as the only path toward de-escalation. Sharif also held discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, urging all parties to preserve the hard-earned gains achieved through diplomacy.
Analysts question leverage as tensions deepen
Political analysts believe Pakistan enjoys the trust of both Washington and Tehran but lacks the leverage to enforce agreements once hostilities resume. They argue that the core dispute over control of the Strait of Hormuz continues to block meaningful progress.
Experts also note that while mediators remain engaged, military developments increasingly shape negotiations. Some believe both sides may eventually return to diplomacy once strategic objectives are reassessed, while others warn that continued escalation could further undermine confidence in the agreement.
Despite repeated setbacks, Pakistan continues working alongside regional partners to encourage dialogue, hoping diplomatic channels remain open even as military exchanges persist across the Gulf. Analysts maintain that any lasting settlement will ultimately depend on political compromises by both Washington and Tehran rather than mediation efforts alone.
