Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, stated on Monday that Iran is currently too "war-torn" to provide swift responses in ongoing negotiations. This assessment came as President Donald Trump extended a deadline concerning potential military action against Iran, while Islamabad actively works to facilitate talks aimed at resolving U.S.-Iran tensions.

Pakistan's Role in De-escalation Diplomacy

Ambassador Sheikh positioned Pakistan as an active facilitator in the efforts to de-escalate the conflict between Washington and Tehran. He cautioned that the process is significantly complicated by the current state of Iran's infrastructure.

Challenges to Communication

Sheikh explained the difficulties Tehran faces in rapid communication. "Iran is a war-torn country with the communication channels certainly disrupted, and it is not even easy to get responses in a good time from the system that currently is in place there," Sheikh noted.

Despite these hurdles, the Ambassador expressed optimism regarding peace talks for the region's benefit. He cited Iran's recent allowance of some oil tankers to transit the Strait of Hormuz as positive evidence of growing confidence in diplomatic possibilities.

Trump Delays Strike Deadline Amid 'Very Good' Talks

President Trump chose to delay the 48-hour ultimatum he had set for Iran regarding the clearance of the Strait of Hormuz, which was due to expire Monday evening. Furthermore, the President ordered the Department of War to halt planned attacks on Iranian power infrastructure while negotiations proceed.

The President indicated that discussions have been "very good" and could potentially lead to a "complete" cessation of hostilities. Sheikh commented that a ceasefire serves as a positive foundation for any negotiation, though reaching a final understanding remains the responsibility of the conflicting parties.

Regional Pressures on Pakistan's Mediation Efforts

Pakistan is simultaneously managing its own border clashes with Afghanistan and India, while maintaining a strong alliance with Saudi Arabia. Analysts suggest that Pakistan's capacity for neutrality is narrowing as the conflict persists and Islamabad seeks to balance relations with the U.S., China, and Iran.

Nevertheless, Pakistan has taken a leading role in mediation, utilizing its established relationships with major global powers. The country previously denounced strikes against Iran but recently supported a Gulf-led resolution at the United Nations condemning regional aggression.

Ambassador Sheikh conveyed gratitude for the trust placed in Pakistan to mediate. He confirmed his nation's readiness to assist in ending the hostilities, stating, "Our prime minister has been talking, working up phones with the global leadership. So, we are trying to create the conducive setting for this dialog to take place."