The United States Cabinet has officially confirmed Pakistan’s role as the central intermediary in the high-stakes conflict between Washington and Tehran. The confirmation comes as U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff revealed a comprehensive 15-point action plan aimed at securing a ceasefire and regional stability.
Speaking during a televised Cabinet meeting at the White House on Thursday, Steve Witkoff confirmed that the U.S. has utilized the Pakistani government to circulate a structured proposal to Iran.
“We have presented a 15-point action list that forms the framework for a peace deal,” Witkoff stated. “This has been circulated through the Pakistani government, acting as the mediator, and has resulted in strong and positive messaging.”
The key point of the proposal includes a rollback of specific nuclear activities and limits on Iran’s ballistic missile program. Declaring the Strait of Hormuz, a free transit zone under international monitoring. Sanctions relief and international cooperation on civilian nuclear energy in exchange for compliance and enhanced access for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Pakistan’s elevation to “Lead Mediator” follows intense back-channel efforts by its civil and military leadership. Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir held a pivotal call with the U.S. President on March 23. This dialogue is credited with securing a five-day pause in U.S. strikes on Iranian infrastructure.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has been in constant contact with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, formally offering Islamabad as the venue for face-to-face talks.
The Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan, Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malkiy, has strongly endorsed Islamabad’s role. In a recent video message, the Ambassador praised Pakistan’s “effective foreign policy” and its growing influence as a “responsible player” in regional stability. Analysts suggest the Saudi backing provides the “unusual credibility” needed for Pakistan to bridge the gap between the U.S. and Iran.
While Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has denied direct “negotiations,” he confirmed that messages are being exchanged through “friendly countries” like Pakistan. However, Tehran’s state-backed media has characterized the current 15-point plan as “one-sided,” indicating that while the channel is open, the terms remain a significant hurdle.
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