Islamabad,(Parliament Times):Sardar Masood Khan, former Ambassador to the United States, China and the United Nations, and former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, has termed Pakistan’s facilitation of direct talks between Washington and Tehran as a historic diplomatic milestone, emphasizing that the process remains “a work in progress” with strong prospects for continuation.
Reflecting on the first round of negotiations held in Islamabad, Ambassador Khan noted that Pakistan succeeded where many global powers had struggled—bringing two adversaries to the table to discuss highly sensitive and complex issues. He highlighted that the talks were preceded by a temporary ceasefire, creating a conducive environment for engagement and allowing both sides to explore common ground, even if no formal agreement was reached.
He underscored that the tone and atmosphere of the talks were constructive, marked by mutual respect, empathy, and a willingness to engage. “This itself is a significant achievement,” he remarked, adding that both delegations returned to their capitals with a clearer understanding of each other’s positions and renewed confidence in the diplomatic process.
Addressing the future trajectory, Ambassador Khan expressed cautious optimism, stating that momentum generated in Islamabad has not dissipated. Despite recent developments, including the imposition of a naval blockade around the Strait of Hormuz, he noted that the ceasefire largely holds and no direct military confrontation has occurred. “The process has not ended; it is evolving,” he said, indicating that a second round of talks remains likely.
He identified two principal areas of potential compromise—the nuclear framework and the governance of the Strait of Hormuz—while noting that other contentious issues, including ballistic missile limitations and regional alignments, continue to pose significant challenges. On the Iranian side, demands such as reparations and broader regional ceasefire arrangements further complicate the negotiating landscape.
Ambassador Khan also pointed to the broader geopolitical context, including ongoing tensions in Lebanon and differing priorities between global and regional actors, particularly the United States and Israel. He observed that while Washington carries global economic responsibilities, regional dynamics continue to shape the pace and scope of diplomatic progress.
Discussing the blockade, he described it as a form of coercive diplomacy aimed at pressuring Iran, though its implementation remains limited rather than absolute. He warned that any escalation could have far-reaching economic consequences, potentially triggering global recession and instability, particularly affecting developing countries.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s role, Ambassador Khan stated that Islamabad continues to engage in quiet and back-channel diplomacy, consulting key regional players including Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Qatar. He noted that international confidence in Pakistan’s leadership has grown, positioning the country as a credible and effective mediator.
Concluding his remarks, he emphasized that Pakistan’s diplomatic initiative has created a viable pathway for peace. While challenges persist, he expressed confidence that sustained engagement, strategic patience, and responsible leadership can transform the current momentum into a durable resolution.