Pakistan Mediates US-Iran War Talks With Focus on Nuclear Program Breakthrough

Pakistani military and government officials met with Iranian and Saudi leaders on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, to discuss a potential finish to the US-Israeli war on Iran. A source told Al Jazeera that Islamabad expects a major breakthrough specifically tied to Iran’s nuclear programme as part of these negotiations.

How Pakistan is mediating the conflict

Pakistan’s role in the conflict has shifted toward active mediation after adopting a policy of official neutrality when the war began in February 2026. Field Marshal Asim Munir has maintained constant communication with US Vice President JD Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to coordinate a ceasefire.

The proposed framework involves a two-stage plan. Initial discussions centered on a 45-day ceasefire that could lead to a permanent end to hostilities. This arrangement would be structured as a memorandum of understanding finalized electronically through Pakistan, which serves as the sole communication channel for the talks.

Why the nuclear programme is a central lever

The expected breakthrough regarding Iran’s nuclear programme suggests that nuclear concessions or guarantees may be the primary condition for a lasting peace. This focus comes as the US and Israel have targeted Iranian infrastructure, including the South Pars Petrochemical Plant in Asaluyeh, which killed at least 34 people on April 6.

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Tehran has remained resistant to some terms of the truce. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei acknowledged Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts but stated that Iran won’t reopen the Strait of Hormuz as part of any temporary ceasefire. The US has used a blockade to pressure Tehran, though it’s unclear if this tactic will force the strait open.

Current risks to the ceasefire

Ongoing violence in Lebanon complicates the diplomatic process. Israel continues strikes against Hezbollah, and the two sides have traded fire even as high-level talks proceed in Pakistan. These regional tensions cast doubt on whether a localized ceasefire in Iran can hold without a broader agreement.

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The human cost of the conflict has risen sharply. Fighting has killed at least 3,000 people in Iran and more than 2,000 in Lebanon. Israel has recorded 23 deaths, while a dozen people have died in Gulf Arab states.

What is the “two-phased” deal?

It’s a proposal brokered by Pakistan that begins with a potential 45-day ceasefire to stop immediate hostilities before moving toward a permanent end to the war.

Will Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz?

Iran has explicitly stated it won’t reopen the strait as part of a temporary ceasefire agreement.