Pakistan has emerged as a central mediator between the United States and Iran following a week of military exchanges, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urging Tehran to safeguard the "hard-earned peace" established under the Islamabad memorandum of understanding signed in June 2026.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar spoke with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on Sunday, pressing for de-escalation in line with the accord that bears Pakistan's capital's name in recognition of its mediating role. Dar and Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud expressed deep concern over the flare-up and agreed to stay in close contact. Egyptian and Qatari foreign ministers also called on Washington and Tehran to resume talks.
US President Donald Trump said negotiations would continue but declared the ceasefire over. Iran's top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned Tehran was prepared for "all-out defence" if Washington betrayed the memorandum. Oil prices eased but remained on track for a 5% weekly gain.