Hugs, ‘delight’ as Munir lands in Iran after failed Pak talks — what next?

After the first round of Islamabad talks failed to end the war between the United States and Iran, Pakistan has once again signalled its readiness to mediate and host a second round of negotiations.

Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir arrived in Iran late Wednesday, accompanied by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, for meetings with senior Iranian officials.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi shared a video of receiving the delegation, expressing appreciation for Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue and highlighting the “deep and strong bilateral relationship” between the two countries. He added that both sides remain committed to promoting regional peace and stability.

What’s on the agenda?

Although the initial round of talks failed to yield a peace agreement, US Vice President JD Vance indicated that some progress had been made, saying Tehran now needs to respond to Washington’s “final proposal.”

Iran, however, said a memorandum of understanding was close before talks collapsed, blaming the breakdown on “maximalism, shifting goalposts, and blockade.”

Tensions escalated during negotiations when the US deployed sea mine destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz. Shortly after, President Donald Trump announced a blockade targeting vessels linked to Iranian ports.

Pakistan is now working to revive the dialogue, focusing on three key sticking points: Iran’s nuclear programme, the Strait of Hormuz, and compensation for wartime damages.

A major disagreement remains over uranium enrichment. While Washington has called for a 20-year halt, Tehran proposed a five-year suspension — an offer rejected by the US.

Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the US remains actively engaged in diplomatic efforts and sees Islamabad as a possible venue for the next round of talks.