Pakistan minister in Tehran as US downs more Iranian drones, tensions simmer

Pakistan is stepping up as a diplomatic mediator between Iran and the US amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi arrived in Tehran carrying a message from Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir for Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, signaling Islamabad’s push to revive negotiations after a temporary April ceasefire appeared fragile. The visit follows the US military’s downing of two Iranian drones near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy corridor for global oil and gas exports. The US has maintained military pressure in the area, while Iran continues to view the strait as vital to its regional security strategy. Disruptions risk destabilizing international energy markets and fueling inflation worldwide. Meanwhile, the Israel-Hezbollah conflict in Lebanon remains a major obstacle to broader peace efforts. Despite a US-backed ceasefire extension, fighting persists, with Israeli strikes in Beirut and Hezbollah operations ongoing. Iran insists Lebanon and Hezbollah must be included in any long-term settlement, while Israel rejects this demand, fearing continued threats to its security. Pakistan’s role is significant due to its diplomatic ties with Iran, Gulf states, and Western powers, offering a rare neutral platform for dialogue. The country’s involvement reflects concerns over economic fallout from regional instability, including rising fuel prices that could hurt global markets and vulnerable economies ahead of US elections. Analysts warn that without progress, tensions could escalate further, threatening energy supplies and regional stability. Pakistan’s mediation efforts remain critical as traditional channels struggle to bridge differences between Tehran and Washington.