The United States and Iran are reportedly exchanging messages regarding peace talks through Pakistan. While direct conversations have not occurred, diplomatic channels facilitated by the intermediary nation remain active.
On May 22, Anadolu Agency cited Iran's semi-official ISNA news outlet, stating that messages between Tehran and Washington continue via Pakistan's mediation. Earlier, Reuters reported that Iran had conveyed its response to a U.S. peace proposal through the intermediary, Pakistan. Al Jazeera also referenced comments from an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, confirming that Tehran's reply was delivered to the U.S. through Pakistan.
ISNA reported that the latest U.S. proposal has narrowed some differences between the two sides. However, Iran maintains that the U.S. must abandon military solutions for further progress to be made. Reuters echoed this sentiment, noting that while the gap between the two sides has narrowed, disagreements remain regarding uranium stockpiles and control over the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistan's mediation efforts are becoming more concrete. Mohsin Naqvi, Pakistan's Interior Minister, has reportedly visited Tehran for the second time in a week to relay messages from the U.S. to Iranian officials. Al Jazeera also reported that General Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan, is scheduled to visit Tehran for discussions with Iranian authorities.
Negotiations have yet to reach a conclusion, with key issues including the handling of Iran's enriched uranium stockpile and navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Reuters reported that Iran's leadership has instructed against exporting enriched uranium. The U.S. and Israel insist that any peace agreement must include provisions for uranium export.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a contentious issue, with the U.S. demanding the lifting of navigation restrictions while Iran insists on maintaining control over the waterway. Iran prioritizes a complete end to hostilities and guarantees against further attacks from the U.S. and Israel, while the U.S. seeks to include nuclear activity limitations and navigation assurances in the peace terms.
Major foreign news outlets indicate that while diplomatic channels between the U.S. and Iran are being maintained and some differences are being narrowed, significant time is still needed to finalize a comprehensive agreement.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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