Pakistan talks seek Iran war off-ramp amid rising tensions
March 29, 2026
Al Jazeera English
Quadruple talks in Islamabad involving Pakistan, Turkiye, Egypt and Saudi Arabia aim to de-escalate the ongoing Iran war. Diplomatic activity has intensified, with foreign ministers holding bilateral and joint discussions to create a pathway for US-Iran negotiations. The format seeks to act as a bridge, conveying demands between United States and Iran in search of an “off-ramp”.
Asif Durrani, Pakistan's former envoy to Tehran, says diplomacy offers hope, though past efforts collapsed due to renewed attacks. He adds that this coalition—distinct from the OIC or Arab League—brings together key regional stakeholders. Now in its fifth week, the war has exceeded expectations of a short conflict, increasing urgency for mediation. The new regional bloc reflects direct stakes of neighbouring and influential states, unlike broader but inactive forums. Concerns remain over possible US ground escalation and longstanding regime change ambitions in Iran. Despite setbacks to its allies, Iran is still seen as a resilient and significant military force. Officials say progress depends on whether both sides are willing to engage beyond initial diplomatic groundwork. Al Jazeera’s Osama Bin Javaid reports from Islamabad, Pakistan. Subscribe to our channel: http://bit.ly/AJSubscribe Follow us on X: https://X.com/AJEnglish Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aljazeera Check our website: http://www.aljazeera.com/ Check out our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/aljazeeraenglish/ Download AJE Mobile App: https://aje.news/AJEMobile #IslamabadTalks #IranWar #PakistanDiplomacy #USIranTalks #USIsraelWarOnIran #Pakistan #Turkiye #Egypt #SaudiArabis #IranPeaceTalks #GulfSecurity #StraitOfHormuz #UnitedStates #AlJazeeraEnglish
Al Jazeera English
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