According to the Pakistani daily Dawn on May 21, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi traveled to Tehran to deliver an 'important message' to Iranian leaders. This marks Naqvi's second visit to Tehran in less than a week. Dawn reported that "Pakistan is intensifying its diplomatic efforts amid a situation that could jeopardize the U.S.-Iran ceasefire."
There are also discussions about a potential visit by Pakistan's military leadership to Iran. Dawn noted that speculation is growing that Army Chief Asim Munir may visit Iran soon. Reuters reported that Munir is considering a trip to Tehran as part of mediation efforts. Iranian news agency ISNA stated that Munir is expected to visit Tehran on May 21 for discussions, although Pakistani authorities have not officially confirmed this.
Pakistan is acting as a conduit between Tehran and Washington. During his visit, Naqvi reportedly met with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and senior officials from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Dawn described this meeting as an attempt by Pakistan to maintain the possibility of resuming negotiations.
Pakistan's diplomatic activities are also extending to China. Prime Minister Sharif's official visit to China from May 23 to 26 is aimed at strengthening economic and digital cooperation and attending a business-to-business forum. This visit coincides with Pakistan's involvement in U.S.-Iran mediation efforts.
Differences between the U.S. and Iran regarding Iran's nuclear program, sanctions relief, and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz remain significant. U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that while he is open to the possibility of an agreement, military action could resume if a resolution is not reached. Although Pakistan's mediating role is becoming more prominent, the substantial gap between U.S. and Iranian positions raises uncertainty about the actual resumption of negotiations.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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