Pakistani Mediation 2026: Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts to Bridge US-Iran Gap Despite Stalled Direct Talks

 Pakistani sources confirmed that efforts to mediate between the US and Iran continue in 2026 despite the cancellation of direct talks in Islamabad. President Trump stated that Iran can contact Washington if they seek a deal, emphasizing that a nuclear weapon is a non-negotiable red line. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi proposed a phased approach starting with ending the military conflict and lifting the naval blockade on Iranian ports, leaving the nuclear issue for a later stage. While the US refuses to negotiate through media, oil prices rose as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to non-Iranian vessels. Pakistani officials noted that negotiations will proceed remotely until a consensus is reached, as the world watches the diplomatic maneuvers in the second quarter of 2026 amidst heavy economic and military pressures.