Pakistan reaffirmed on Monday its resolve to facilitate the holding of Iran-US negotiations, while agreement was reached to maintain contacts to ensure Iran’s participation.
According to details, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level consultative meeting on the second round of the Islamabad Talks, attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and senior officials.
Sources divulged that the meeting reviewed the situation following Iran’s reported refusal to take part in the talks. The interior minister briefed the prime minister on his meetings with the American and Iranian ambassadors.
It may be recalled that the second round of talks between the United States and Iran is expected to take place in Islamabad tomorrow. Despite firm positions on both sides, Pakistan’s efforts remain under way. The leadership has kept in close contact with the relevant parties on each development. However, no timetable for a final agreement can be given.
The federal interior minister also held separate meetings with the American and Iranian ambassadors, informing them of security arrangements for the second round. Both envoys commended Pakistan’s sincere role for peace.
Iran declines immediate participation
Also Read: Iran declines immediate participation
Earlier, however, Iran ruled out immediate participation in a new round of negotiations with the United States, heightening tensions with sharp accusations of ceasefire violations and warnings of possible military retaliation.
At a press briefing, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaie said Tehran had no plans at present to join a second round of talks with Washington.
He cited what the Washington’s “unrealistic demands” and shifting positions as major obstacles to diplomacy, adding that the United States was not learning its lessons and did not appear serious about negotiations.
Baqaie accused the United States of violating the ceasefire from the outset of its implementation. He said Iran had informed Pakistan, acting as mediator, of these violations, particularly pointing to the continuation of the US naval blockade as a breach of the agreement.
The spokesman alleged that the United States attacked an Iranian vessel and imposed a maritime blockade, describing both actions as violations of international law and the ceasefire.
Iran warns of military response
The spokesperson warned that Iranian forces would respond to any “foolish action” by US forces, stressing that Tehran will continue to defend its national interests.
He added that if the US and Israel initiate new aggression, Iran’s armed forces are ready to respond accordingly.
Also Read: Iran urges diplomacy but warns of US distrust
A separate statement from an Iranian military spokesperson confirmed readiness to retaliate over the seizure of an Iranian ship, noting that any response had been delayed to ensure the safety of the crew.
Iran accused the US of attacking its territory, killing Iranian citizens, and targeting infrastructure during previous negotiations.
Baqaie said Washington has violated talks twice and is now engaged in a “blame game,” accusing Iran instead of taking constructive steps.
.jpg)
