Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has arrived in Iran carrying a "special letter" for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as the South Asian nation steps up its role as a mediator between Tehran and Washington. The visit comes amid rising fears of a full-scale conflict, with Gulf states urging restraint.
Naqvi's mission is part of Pakistan's broader diplomatic push to de-escalate tensions that have spiked following recent U.S. airstrikes in Iraq and Syria. Pakistani officials have emphasized the need for dialogue, warning that any war would destabilize the entire region.
Iranian state media confirmed the meeting, describing it as a discussion on bilateral ties and regional security. The contents of the letter remain undisclosed, but analysts suggest it may contain proposals for confidence-building measures or a framework for indirect talks.
This is not the first time Pakistan has acted as a go-between. Historically, Islamabad has mediated between Saudi Arabia and Iran, leveraging its ties with both nations. However, the current crisis demands a delicate balance, as Pakistan maintains close relations with both Tehran and Washington.
Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have also voiced concerns, calling for restraint and warning that a war could disrupt oil supplies and regional stability. The United Nations has similarly urged all parties to avoid further escalation.