• Pakistan's interior minister visits Iran to facilitate message exchanges between Tehran and Washington.
  • Iran confirms receipt of US points, signaling willingness to explore de-escalation.
  • Energy markets monitor potential shifts in Gulf tensions.

The diplomatic backchannel between Iran and the United States is gaining momentum, with Pakistan stepping in as a key intermediary. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson confirmed on Friday that Pakistan’s Interior Minister is in Iran to facilitate the exchange of messages, according to Iranian media. The visit underscores Pakistan’s growing role as a mediator in the region, amid heightened tensions over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz and broader US-Iran rivalry.

According to people familiar with the matter, Pakistani officials have acknowledged that Tehran has received Washington’s points and that ongoing talks are progressing through this channel. Iran’s foreign ministry has signaled a willingness to de-escalate, though details on the format and participants remain fluid.

“We consider this a positive step,” a Pakistani official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The official added that Islamabad aims to reduce the risk of miscalculation. Attempts to reach the US State Department for comment were unsuccessful.

The development comes amid a backdrop of persistent tensions in the Gulf, where the US and Iran have been at odds over nuclear issues and regional influence. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, has been a focal point of concern.

Market observers are watching closely. “Any tangible de-escalation could ease risk premiums in oil and shipping,” said a London-based analyst. “But the situation remains fragile.”

If messaging channels prove constructive, analysts expect gradual steps toward confidence-building measures or even resumed formal talks. However, the path is uncertain. “Back-channel diplomacy has a history of stalling,” noted a Middle East expert. “The key is whether both sides see benefit in sustained engagement.”

For now, Pakistan’s mediation offers a rare flicker of diplomatic movement in a region fraught with volatility.