Pakistan military chief arrives in Tehran in push to end Iran war

Pakistan’s military chief, General Asim Munir, arrived in Tehran on Friday to continue mediation efforts between Iran and the U.S. in their bid to end the ongoing Middle East war. The visit follows a ceasefire on April 8, though previous negotiations—including direct talks hosted by Islamabad in April—have stalled due to Iran’s accusations that the U.S. made excessive demands. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baqaei, emphasized that disagreements with the U.S. remain extensive, despite recent diplomatic efforts from regional and international actors, including Qatar. The U.S. has expressed cautious optimism, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that Pakistan’s involvement could advance progress. However, Rubio also highlighted tensions with NATO allies, who have been criticized by former President Donald Trump for insufficient support. He warned European nations they may need to develop a ‘Plan B’ to force the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively closed in retaliation for U.S.-Israeli strikes in February. The strait is a critical global shipping route for oil and gas, and its blockade has raised concerns about economic disruptions. Iranian media had earlier reported Munir’s visit was scheduled for Thursday to continue consultations, though the timing shifted. During his arrival, Munir was welcomed by Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni and Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who had visited Tehran earlier in the week. Baqaei noted that while multiple countries are engaged in mediation, Pakistan remains the official intermediary. The conflict has expanded beyond Iran and Israel, with Hezbollah drawing Lebanon into the war after launching rocket attacks in retaliation for the killing of Iran’s supreme leader in U.S.-Israeli strikes. Since a truce began on April 17, Israel has continued strikes and demolitions in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah, while the group has maintained its attacks. Lebanon’s health ministry reported at least 3,111 civilian deaths from Israeli strikes. Baqaei also stressed the need to address the broader conflict, including the situation in Lebanon, as part of any lasting resolution.