Iran says ‘no direct talks’ with US as Araghchi-led delegation lands in Pakistan

According to Dawn News, Araghchi was received by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, and other senior officials.

After welcoming the Iranian Foreign Minister, Dar wrote on X, “Pleased to receive and welcome my brother, Foreign Minister of Iran, H.E. Abbas Araghchi @Araghchi, to Islamabad, alongside Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.”

He added that he was looking forward to meaningful engagements aimed at promoting regional peace and stability.

Before departing for Pakistan, Araghchi posted on X, “Embarking on timely tour of Islamabad, Muscat, and Moscow. Purpose of my visits is to closely coordinate with our partners on bilateral matters and consult on regional developments. Our neighbors are our priority.”

However, Iran has made it clear that no direct meeting with the United States is currently planned.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqaei said, “We arrive in Islamabad, Pakistan, for an official visit. FM Araghchi will be meeting with Pakistani high-level officials in concert with their ongoing mediation and good offices for ending American-imposed war of aggression and the restoration of peace in our region.”

He further clarified, “No meeting is planned to take place between Iran and the U.S. Iran’s observations would be conveyed to Pakistan.”

Meanwhile, CNN reported on Friday that the White House is sending Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner to Pakistan to engage with representatives of Araghchi in an effort to explore possible diplomatic openings.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the development during an interview with Fox News, saying, “Special Envoy Witkoff and Jared Kushner will be off to Pakistan again tomorrow morning to engage in talks with representatives from the Iranian delegation.”

US signals openness, but no urgency

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said Iran still had an opportunity to reach what he described as a “good deal, a wise deal,” while making it clear that Washington was under no pressure to rush toward a ceasefire agreement.

“We have all the time in the world,” Hegseth said, stressing that the US is not seeking a quick or forced settlement.

Uncertain diplomatic path ahead

While backchannel discussions appear to be intensifying through Pakistan as an intermediary, Iran has not confirmed participation in direct talks, leaving the immediate prospects for formal negotiations uncertain.