Pakistan says little, reveals less

Pakistan is quietly making preparations for a potential high-stakes meeting between the US and Iran in the federal capital, in what could mark a significant diplomatic opening aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, even as Tehran reportedly rejected Washington's 15-point proposal shared through Islamabad. An unprecedented level of secrecy surrounds the possible talks which, according to multiple international reports, may be attended by US Vice President JD Vance and other senior officials. The exact timing, venue and participants remain fluid, reflecting the sensitivity of the initiative. The Express Tribune approached relevant authorities, including the Foreign Office, but officials declined to offer any details, citing the confidential nature of the matter. The veil of secrecy is so tight that even some diplomats who would typically be privy to such developments appear to be out of the loop. "This is an extremely delicate matter. Revealing details at this stage could undermine the very essence of discreet diplomacy," a senior Foreign Office official told The Express Tribune on the condition of anonymity. Against this backdrop of mounting speculation, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi urged restraint, cautioning media outlets against reporting unverified information. "Many media outlets are carrying speculation/rumours on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East/Persian Gulf with fake information about Pakistan." "I respectfully reiterate that diplomacy and negotiations require discretion and confidentiality. The media is therefore urged to refrain from speculation and to await official announcements on any decisions or outcomes," he added. The diplomatic activity follows a series of conflicting signals from Tehran. Iran initially denied any direct or indirect engagement with Washington but later acknowledged receiving a 15-point proposal from the United States through Pakistani intermediaries. Two senior officials in Islamabad confirmed to AFP that the plan aimed at halting hostilities that have spread across the Gulf, had been conveyed to Iran via Pakistan. Pakistan's role as a potential mediator stems from its longstanding ties with both Tehran and Washington, as well as its strategic positioning in the region. Officials say Islamabad has been actively facilitating backchannel communication between the two sides. According to CNN, officials in the administration of US President Donald Trump are working to arrange a meeting in Pakistan as early as this weekend to explore a possible off-ramp to the war. The report suggests Vice President JD Vance could travel to Pakistan, alongside other top officials, although plans remain subject to change. Sources familiar with the discussions indicate that security considerations have also prompted alternative options, with Türkiye emerging as a possible venue for the talks. While Pakistan has played a key intermediary role, regional players such as Türkiye are also engaged in parallel diplomatic efforts. Discussions on the proposed meeting are expected to continue at the White House, underscoring the fluid and evolving nature of the diplomatic push. For now, Islamabad remains at the centre of a quiet but potentially consequential effort, one that could shape the trajectory of a widening regional conflict, if it materialises.