Iran has voiced strong dissatisfaction over Pakistan’s attempts to mediate between the United States and Iran, signaling growing mistrust amid ongoing regional tensions. Iranian MP Ebrahim Rezaei publicly criticized Pakistan, stating that it lacks the neutrality required to act as a credible intermediary between the two nations.
Rezaei remarked that while Pakistan remains a friendly neighboring country, it has historically aligned itself with the United States, raising concerns over its impartiality. He emphasized that a mediator must maintain equal distance from both sides, accusing Pakistan of leaning heavily in favor of Washington.
Amid these developments, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has intensified diplomatic efforts to keep dialogue channels open. During his recent visit to Pakistan, Araghchi held high-level talks with the country’s leadership, focusing not only on nuclear issues but also on maritime security and the easing of US-imposed sanctions.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump stated that Iran could engage in direct talks with Washington without the need for any third-party mediation. In a light-hearted remark, he noted that the United States is open to communication and that Iran can directly reach out if it seeks negotiations, underscoring Washington’s preference for bilateral engagement.
Following his Pakistan visit, Araghchi departed for Moscow, where he is expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to garner support. In a parallel move, Trump extended the ceasefire deadline on potential strikes against Iran until May 6, citing requests from Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir, while reiterating that sanctions relief remains conditional on Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz.