Pakistan emerges as key mediator in Iran-US war
PUBLISHED Apr 17, 2026, 1:01 PM ET
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Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, has become a central figure in efforts to mediate an end to the ongoing war between the United States and Iran. After 21 hours of unsuccessful talks in Islamabad involving US vice-president JD Vance, Munir flew urgently to Tehran on Wednesday, where he was greeted by Iranian foreign minister and chief negotiator Abbas Araghchi. Munir delivered a new US proposal outlining a framework for fresh talks in Islamabad next week. Despite imposing a naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, US President Donald Trump publicly praised Munir’s role, as Pakistan coordinates shuttle diplomacy largely from Rawalpindi.
By Shahbaz A. | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Earlier this week, talks in Islamabad fail
- Four days ago, JD Vance departs Pakistan
- Soon after, Trump orders Hormuz naval blockade
- Soon after, Trump praises Munir mediation efforts
- Wednesday evening, Munir arrives in Tehran
- Wednesday evening, Araghchi warmly receives Munir
- Wednesday night, Munir presents new US proposal
- Next week, fresh Islamabad talks framework planned
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