ISLAMABAD: Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt have reportedly stepped in to facilitate diplomatic efforts aimed at calming the ongoing US-Iran crisis. These countries are engaging in behind-the-scenes talks to prevent further escalation.
According to sources, high-level discussions involved key figures such as US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. Reports indicate that these nations have been actively exchanging messages over the past couple of days, seeking avenues for de-escalation.
In contrast, Iran has publicly denied engaging in direct or indirect negotiations with the United States. The Iranian state-linked Fars News Agency quoted a source denying any talks taking place. Other Iranian outlets have expressed differing views; Tasnim News Agency stated that no negotiations are underway and warned that the Strait of Hormuz would not revert to pre-conflict conditions. Tasnim also claimed that President Trump’s recent reluctance to target Iranian infrastructure was due to pressure from financial markets, and emphasized Iran’s right to self-defense until it achieves sufficient deterrence.
Meanwhile, Mehr News Agency, citing Iran’s foreign ministry, acknowledged that efforts to reduce regional tensions are ongoing but emphasized that the U.S. should take the initiative in negotiations, as Iran insists it did not start the conflict. The agency also suggested that Trump’s recent comments might be aimed at lowering oil prices and buying time to strategize militarily.
Trump Delays Military Action Following ‘Constructive’ Dialogues In a notable development, President Trump announced a five-day delay of planned military strikes on Iranian energy facilities. He shared this news via Truth Social, describing the past two days of discussions with Iran as “VERY GOOD AND PRODUCTIVE,” and expressing hope for a comprehensive resolution to hostilities in the region.
This decision came just hours before a critical deadline that could have triggered further conflict. Trump had previously warned that Iran’s power plants would be targeted if Tehran did not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours—an ultimatum set to expire Monday evening.
In response, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards issued threats of retaliation, vowing to attack Israel’s power infrastructure and facilities supplying U.S. bases across the Gulf if military strikes occurred. These threats raised concerns about potential disruptions to vital regional infrastructure, including electricity grids and desalination plants critical for potable water.
Market Reactions Reflect Uncertainty
The ongoing crisis has already impacted global financial markets. Brent crude oil prices fell approximately 7%, slipping close to $104 per barrel as of 1127 GMT, reflecting investor anxiety. The threat of military strikes had initially unsettled markets, but signs of possible de-escalation have alleviated some concerns.
While Trump insists diplomatic channels are active, Iranian officials continue to deny any formal negotiations with Washington. Meanwhile, reports suggest that regional players like Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan are quietly mediating, passing messages between the U.S. and Iran in an effort to prevent further escalation. Axios reports that senior officials from these countries have held separate discussions with US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in recent days.
The situation remains highly volatile, with diplomacy, military threats, and market reactions all influencing the unfolding crisis. Efforts are ongoing to find a peaceful resolution amid conflicting narratives and complex regional dynamics.
