Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has pushed back against reports suggesting Tehran refused to participate in talks in Pakistan, saying the country’s position has been “misrepresented” by sections of the US media.
In a post on X, Araghchi expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and clarified that Iran has “never refused” to travel to Islamabad. He stressed that Tehran’s priority remains securing the terms of a “conclusive and lasting end” to what he described as an “illegal war” imposed on Iran.
Pakistan Responds as Diplomatic Messaging Shifts
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar responded warmly to Araghchi’s clarification, thanking him and referring to him as a “dear brother”, signalling continued diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
The exchange comes against the backdrop of reports indicating that regional mediation efforts, led by Pakistan, had hit a roadblock.
Truly appreciate your clarification, my Dear Brother @Araghchi. 🇵🇰 🤝 🇮🇷 https://t.co/reptX11LQa
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) April 4, 2026
Report Claims Deadlock in Ceasefire Efforts
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, attempts to broker a ceasefire between the United States and Iran have stalled, with no immediate breakthrough in sight.
The report claimed that Tehran had informed mediators it would not send officials to Islamabad for talks in the coming days, effectively halting the current diplomatic track. It also noted that Iran views Washington’s demands as unacceptable, further complicating negotiations.
Trump’s Remarks Add to Tensions
Amid the ongoing diplomatic friction, former US President Donald Trump said he had discussed the possibility of a ceasefire with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a phone call.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Iran’s president was seeking a ceasefire but added that any such move would depend on the Strait of Hormuz being “open, free, and clear”.
He also issued a stark warning, stating that military action would continue until those conditions were met.
Iran Rejects Claims as ‘False’
Iran, however, firmly rejected Trump’s assertions. A spokesperson for the country’s Foreign Ministry described the claims as “false and baseless”, underscoring the widening gap between public statements and diplomatic realities.
