Pakistan seeks nuclear 'breakthrough' as army chief shuttles between Iran, US

Pakistan has launched a high-stakes mediation effort to resolve the long-standing impasse over Iran’s nuclear programme, with government sources revealing that Islamabad is working toward a “breakthrough in days to come.” Pakistani army chief Gen. Asim Munir is currently holding talks with Iranian leadership on the nuclear issue, which remains the main obstacle to any negotiated settlement between Tehran and Washington. Two Pakistani government sources, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the mediation process, told Anadolu that Islamabad is trying to build “maximum understanding” between the US and Iran ahead of a possible new round of talks in the Pakistani capital.

Third-party monitoring proposal

According to the sources, Iran has agreed in principle to a Pakistani proposal for third-party monitoring of its nuclear programme by four nations working jointly with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Tehran has no objection to the UN nuclear watchdog’s inclusion in the four-nation framework. The proposal has been conveyed to Gen. Munir by Iranian officials, though Washington has yet to react. The US has long demanded “strict and comprehensive” monitoring to ensure Iran does not develop nuclear weapons. Reports from Tehran suggest gaps between the two sides have narrowed, but Washington’s priority remains a 20-year suspension of Iran’s uranium enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief. Iran currently holds over 400 kilograms of enriched uranium and has reportedly proposed a five-year suspension.

Possible US visit and next steps

Gen. Munir may travel to Washington, DC, “in a day or two” for meetings with US President Donald Trump to discuss Islamabad’s proposal, the sources added. No official confirmation has been issued regarding such a visit. Technical teams from the US and Iran are continuously exchanging messages to reach maximum understanding before another round of talks, which both sides hope will become a “deal-signing ceremony.” Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesman Tahir Andrabi confirmed Thursday that the nuclear issue is “among the subjects” being discussed, though no dates or venue have been set for new talks. The White House has suggested that expected negotiations will likely be held in Islamabad.