US seeks Pakistan’s mediation to end Iran conflict

Marco Rubio on Thursday expressed hope for progress in negotiations aimed at ending the conflict with Iran, while highlighting Pakistan’s role in mediation efforts.

Rubio said Pakistani officials were expected to travel to Tehran to help move discussions forward as diplomatic efforts continue following weeks of tension and conflict in the region.

A ceasefire announced in April halted direct fighting between Iran, the United States and Israel, but negotiations for a permanent agreement have so far failed to produce a breakthrough.

The US secretary of state said Washington still hopes to reach a deal but warned that uncertainty remains over the outcome of the talks.

Earlier, Donald Trump said negotiations were at a critical stage and cautioned that military action could quickly resume if talks collapse.

Iranian officials also warned of a strong response if the country faces new attacks.

At the same time, Tehran continues to demand the release of frozen Iranian assets and an end to US restrictions linked to the ongoing conflict.

The situation has also kept pressure on global energy markets, as the strategically important Strait of Hormuz remains partially disrupted.

Meanwhile, tensions continued in Lebanon, where local authorities reported fresh Israeli strikes in the country’s south despite an earlier ceasefire agreement.