Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi left Islamabad without holding any direct meeting with U.S. envoys, Pakistani officials confirmed, underscoring the continued stalemate in efforts to ease tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel. The visit had raised expectations of backchannel diplomacy, but Tehran made it clear that no face-to-face engagement with American representatives would take place.
According to Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei, there were no plans for direct talks during the trip. Instead, Pakistan was expected to act as an intermediary, relaying messages between the two sides. The development reflects Iran’s cautious approach to negotiations amid the ongoing conflict.
Meanwhile, Iran announced the resumption of commercial flights from Tehran’s main international airport for the first time since hostilities with the U.S. and Israel began two months ago. The move is seen as a signal of partial normalization despite the unresolved crisis.
On the U.S. side, President Donald Trump said he had instructed his envoys not to travel to Pakistan for further talks. Speaking to Fox News, Trump said he cancelled the trip at the last moment, arguing that such long-distance negotiations were unproductive. He emphasized that the U.S. holds a strong negotiating position and expects Iran to initiate meaningful engagement.
Interestingly, Trump revealed that shortly after he called off the visit, Iran sent a revised peace proposal. He described the earlier offer as inadequate but noted that a new version arrived within minutes and was “much better.” While he did not disclose details, he reiterated that any agreement must ensure Iran does not develop nuclear weapons.
Earlier, U.S. envoys including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were expected to travel to Islamabad, while Vice President J.D. Vance remained on standby. Despite diplomatic activity involving regional players like Pakistan and Egypt, a breakthrough remains elusive as both sides continue indirect engagement.
