Iran Keeps Diplomatic Channel Open with US via Pakistan, Prepares to Host Delegation

Istanbul, April 16: Iran has confirmed that indirect communications with the United States are ongoing through Pakistani mediation, as Tehran prepares to host a high-level delegation from Pakistan in the coming days.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said message exchanges between Tehran and Washington have continued since the Iranian delegation returned home earlier this week. The communications are being facilitated by Islamabad following recent discussions between Pakistani and US officials.

“Multiple messages have been exchanged through the Pakistani intermediary,” Baghaei stated during a press briefing, according to state media.

He added that Iran is expected to receive a Pakistani delegation either Wednesday or Thursday, signaling continued diplomatic engagement despite the lack of a formal breakthrough.

“Our positions have been conveyed and heard,” he noted, without providing further details on the content of the exchanges.

On the sensitive nuclear issue, Baghaei reiterated that uranium enrichment remains a longstanding point of discussion. He emphasized that while there may be flexibility on technical aspects such as the level and type of enrichment, Iran maintains its right to pursue nuclear activities in line with its national interests.

“There is room for discussion on the type and level of enrichment. Iran must be able to continue enrichment based on its national needs,” he said.

The latest developments follow rare direct talks between US and Iranian officials held in Pakistan last weekend. The negotiations, aimed at easing longstanding tensions, concluded early Sunday without any agreement.

Despite the inconclusive outcome, ongoing backchannel communication suggests that diplomatic efforts to bridge differences between Tehran and Washington remain active.