Islamabad hosts cautious diplomatic maneuvers amid 18-day truce between Tehran, Washington

ISLAMABAD, April 25 (YPA) – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, on Friday evening for an official visit coinciding with the 18th day of the ceasefire between Iran and the United States.

Tehran categorically denied any intention to hold direct talks with the US side, emphasizing that communications will remain through mediators. Iran continues to demand the lifting of the blockade on its ports as a primary condition.

President Donald Trump expressed “cautious optimism” regarding a potential Iranian proposal, while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stressed that Tehran must seize the opportunity to abandon its nuclear program under verifiable conditions.

The US Vice President JD Vance is preparing to visit Pakistan, reinforcing expectations of Islamabad’s pivotal role in bridging the gap between the two nations.

These diplomatic efforts unfold amid severe global economic pressure following an unprecedented decline in maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. This disruption has triggered a spike in global oil prices and fueled inflationary pressures, pushing both parties toward a political resolution to avoid further escalation.

YPA