Pakistan Steps Up Mediation Efforts in US-Iran Conflict: Military High Command Talks to Trump, Islamabad Could Serve as Potential Negotiation Hub

On March 24, as Middle East tensions escalate, Pakistan is actively mediating diplomatically to build a communication bridge between the U.S. and Iran. Informed sources say Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir has spoken with former President Trump to discuss potential conflict resolution. Pakistan is pushing to make Islamabad a negotiation venue, with U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff playing a key mediation role. Multiple reports note potential talks could also include Jared Kushner and other senior U.S. officials. Previously, Trump said he delayed strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure after "productive talks" with Tehran. But Iranian officials still deny direct negotiations, saying only that they are reviewing information relayed via intermediaries. Meanwhile, Pakistan is pursuing a multi-pronged diplomatic push. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has spoken with Iran’s president, offering support and calling for de-escalation, while senior military officials have held intensive talks with Saudi counterparts to boost regional coordination. Analysts say Pakistan’s active mediation stems from its long-standing ties with both Iran and Saudi Arabia, plus its own energy security concerns. Disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz—through which roughly one-fifth of global oil and gas moves—have put pressure on Pakistan’s natural gas supplies, as the country relies heavily on Gulf energy imports.