WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said there are “some good signs” in ongoing Iran-related talks, though he remained cautious and warned that alternatives are still available if diplomacy fails.
Pakistan is playing mediating role, with Army Chief’s expected visit to Tehran seen as part of efforts to relay messages between the key parties. Despite these developments, major differences remain and the outcome is still uncertain.
Rubio said there are “some good signs” that possible US–Iran deal could still be reached, as diplomatic efforts intensify amid ongoing tensions. He noted that Pakistani officials are expected to travel to Tehran, suggesting that this could help advance communication between Washington and Tehran through mediation channels.
Rubio stressed that US president’s priority remains achieving a “good deal” with Iran, calling diplomacy the preferred path. However, he also warned that if an acceptable agreement cannot be reached, alternative options remain available, though he did not elaborate on them. He added that while there are encouraging signals, he is not overly optimistic and expects the situation to become clearer in the coming days.
A key development in diplomatic process is expected visit of Pakistan’s Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir to Tehran. His visit is being viewed as significant, as Pakistan continues to play a central mediating role between the United States and Iran, helping relay messages between both sides.
Those familiar with development claimed Asim Munir’s reported engagement in Tehran would not be taking place unless important diplomatic messages needed to be delivered at a critical stage of negotiations. Pakistan’s involvement has become increasingly central as it works to keep indirect communication channels open between the two rivals.
Many observers believe the current diplomatic push represents a crucial opportunity to prevent a return to open conflict, though major disagreements remain unresolved.
Tehran is demanding guarantees that it will not face another war, along with broader concessions such as greater influence over the Strait of Hormuz, the return of frozen assets, and permission to retain a portion of its enriched uranium. These conditions reflect Tehran’s security and economic concerns after years of confrontation.
United States, meanwhile, is insisting on stricter nuclear limits, including the shutdown of Iran’s nuclear facilities, allowing only limited activity in Tehran without uranium enrichment.
Iran-US talks continue through Pakistan despite key differences
