POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Iran Affirms Ties with Pakistan, Rejects Direct US Negotiations Amid Gulf Tensions

Iran praises Pakistan as a “good neighbor” and clarifies no direct talks with the US; vows to defend itself and maintain Strait of Hormuz operations amid Gulf conflict.
2026-03-25
Iran Affirms Ties with Pakistan, Rejects Direct US Negotiations Amid Gulf Tensions

Iran has reiterated its strong diplomatic ties with Pakistan while rejecting claims of direct negotiations with the United States regarding the ongoing Gulf conflict. In an interview, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghai emphasized that Pakistan is a trusted neighbor and that Tehran recognizes the “good intentions” of Pakistan and other regional states in de-escalating tensions.

According to Baghai, Iran’s foreign minister has maintained communication with counterparts from neighboring countries, including Pakistan, as part of broader efforts to manage the regional situation. “Regional states and neighboring countries are concerned about the consequences of this situation. Everyone is trying to improve the situation in one way or another,” he said.

Baqai stressed that while several countries have offered to mediate between Tehran and Washington, Iran has made clear that its stance is to continue defending itself. He added that American and Israeli claims of ongoing negotiations with Iran are not credible. “After the aggression against Iran, no one can trust American diplomacy anymore. We were attacked twice during negotiations over nine months — this was a betrayal of diplomacy,” he said.

The spokesperson confirmed that there has been no contact between Iran and the United States over the past 24 days. He affirmed that Iran’s armed forces continue to protect the country’s territorial integrity, including ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s position on the Strait or conditions for ending the imposed conflict remains unchanged.

Baqai added that when the US, through friendly countries, requested negotiations, Iran responded via these intermediaries in accordance with its principles. He warned that any attacks on Iran’s critical infrastructure would trigger immediate and decisive military retaliation. Iran has already carried out retaliatory strikes on American interests in West Asia and on Israeli positions in occupied territories.

The statements underscore Iran’s insistence on defending its sovereignty while engaging cautiously with regional actors to manage the ongoing Gulf tensions, highlighting Islamabad’s role as a trusted intermediary in the unfolding diplomatic efforts.