Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi left Islamabad on Sunday after a brief visit, as Pakistan's leadership scrambled to revive negotiations between Tehran and Washington to end their war. US President Donald Trump suggested that Iranian officials could call him directly for talks.
Araghchi's Visit and Departure
Araghchi had departed Islamabad late Saturday, causing confusion over an expected second round of talks. He returned Sunday for meetings before continuing to Moscow, Iranian state media reported. He had been in Oman, which previously mediated the talks.
Upon his return, Araghchi held talks with Pakistan's Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, according to Iranian state media. Iran's Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, expressed gratitude on X, thanking Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Munir for their efforts to end the war and bring peace to the region.
Trump's Comments on Phone Talks
In an interview on Fox News, Trump said Iran could call if it wanted to negotiate. "If they want to talk, they can come to us, or they can call us. You know, there is a telephone. We have nice, secure lines," he said. Trump had earlier called off the dispatch of envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Islamabad due to lack of progress.
Trump also indefinitely extended the ceasefire agreed on April 7, which has largely halted fighting that began with US-Israeli strikes on Feb. 28. However, a permanent settlement remains elusive. Asked if halting the envoy trip meant a return to hostilities, Trump said: "No, it doesn't mean that. We haven't thought about it yet."
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
Iranian state news agency IRNA reported that Araghchi held separate phone conversations with his Saudi, French, and Qatari counterparts while flying from Muscat to Islamabad. He briefed them on his visits and consultations to de-escalate tensions and stop the aggression against Iran.
Two Pakistani officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AP that indirect talks between the US and Iran were ongoing.
