Pakistan’s diplomatic push to defuse rising tensions in the Middle East gathered pace on Tuesday, as the White House confirmed that Donald Trump has been briefed on a two-week ceasefire proposal put forward by Shehbaz Sharif.
The development comes just hours before a critical US deadline for Iran to end its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz or face severe military consequences.
White House acknowledges Pakistan’s proposal
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the US president is aware of Islamabad’s request.
“The President has been made aware of the proposal, and a response will come,” she said in a brief statement.
Trump, speaking to Fox News, declined to share details about the ongoing talks but described them as “heated negotiations.”
“I can’t tell you, because right now we’re in heated negotiations,” he said, adding that he would soon be fully briefed on Pakistan’s ceasefire proposal.
“I can say this — that I know him [Shehbaz Sharif] very well. He’s a highly respected man, all over,” Trump told Fox.
Iran signals openness, keeps options open
Amid the diplomatic efforts, a senior Iranian official indicated that Tehran is prepared for multiple outcomes.
According to Reuters, the official said Iran is “ready both for peace and for war,” reflecting the high-stakes nature of the ongoing standoff.
Also Read: PM Shehbaz appeals to Trump, Iran for two-week ceasefire
A regional source suggested that progress may be imminent, hinting that “some good news is expected from both sides soon,” with a potential deal possibly being finalised within hours.
Pakistan’s role as key mediator
Pakistan has emerged as a central intermediary in backchannel negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
A regional source indicated to CNN that “some good news is expected from both sides soon”, adding that the talks were directly led by Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marashal Asim Munir, and a deal could be finalised as early as tonight.
The proposed plan includes a two-week ceasefire and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, allowing space for negotiations to reach a broader settlement.
Also Read: Pakistan actively mediating Iran-US ceasefire: Dar
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had earlier urged both sides to “allow diplomacy to run its course,” calling for restraint and a temporary halt in hostilities.
Deadline looms
The urgency of the situation is underscored by Trump’s 8pm EDT deadline for Iran to comply. The US president has warned of devastating consequences if Tehran fails to act, including potential strikes on key infrastructure.
In recent remarks, Trump issued a stark warning, saying that failure to reach an agreement could result in unprecedented destruction.
Despite the rhetoric, Washington has signaled willingness to consider Pakistan’s proposal, raising cautious optimism for de-escalation.
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