THE current US-Iran war intensified in early April 2026, following direct and indirect confrontations involving the US, Iran and allied actors.
A temporary ceasefire was first agreed upon on April 8, 2026, largely due to the mediation efforts spearheaded by Pakistan. However, the ceasefire remained fragile from the outset. Violations were reported by both sides, while underlying disputes—particularly over Iran’s nuclear program, US sanctions, proxy roles and regional influence—remained unresolved. The US escalated pressure by imposing a naval blockade on Iranian ports, which Tehran viewed as a violation of the truce and an act of aggression. These developments created a precarious situation that risked the ceasefire while raising fears of a renewed large-scale conflict.
Even in this paradoxical situation, Pakistan has been undertaking extensive multi-layered preparations for the Islamabad Peace Talks 2.0, reflecting its transparent intent to position itself as a credible global mediator. Diplomatically, high-level engagements have been intensified while coordinating closely with key stakeholders, including delegations from the US and Iran, regional partners and international observers. Pakistan has primarily focused on building trust by maintaining neutrality and emphasizing dialogue over confrontation. Logistically, the government has ensured adequate arrangements, including secured accommodations and transport for delegates, while law enforcement agencies have implemented comprehensive measures to guarantee confidentiality. Thousands of security personnel have been deployed in the capital to ensure uncompromised security. Economically, resources have been allocated to support the event, recognizing its potential to enhance Pakistan’s international reputation.
Strategically, think tanks and policy experts are engaged to develop negotiation frameworks aimed at achieving sustainable outcomes. Several international journalists have traveled to Islamabad to report on this significant event. Media management has also been prioritized, with efforts to project a balanced narrative. Altogether, these preparations underscore Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating meaningful dialogue. However, the second phase of peace talks remains on hold due to frequent friction between the two sides. As a consequence, the US and Iranian delegations have not yet traveled to Islamabad, as Iran’s reluctance to negotiate under perceived coercion continues to hinder progress, while the US naval blockade and continued military readiness maintain pressure on Tehran.
Pakistan has been persuading both parties to return to the negotiation table, but both have stepped back by presenting their respective conditions. As the original two-week ceasefire approached its expiration, tensions escalated again. The US signaled disagreement to continue the truce without tangible outcomes, while Iran expressed skepticism about negotiations under pressure. At this critical juncture, Pakistan intervened decisively. The influential trio, including the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister as well as the Army Chief of Pakistan, visited Iran, Qatar, Turkiye and KSA and remained in touch with the top leadership of both sides to resolve the issues through table talks.
The Pakistani leadership formally requested the US to extend the ceasefire. Donald Trump later announced an indefinite extension of the ceasefire, explicitly acknowledging Pakistan’s role. The extension was intended to create space for Iran to present a unified negotiation framework and to keep diplomatic channels open. Whether the Islamabad Accord 2.0 happens or not, this entire proactive diplomacy underscores Pakistan’s influence as a peaceful negotiator and demonstrates its ability to shape outcomes in such a high-stakes global crisis.
—The writer is digital media manager, Pakistan Observer.
