Islamabad, April 26, 2026: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has returned to Pakistan after completing a key diplomatic visit to Muscat, according to Iranian state media reports cited by Reuters. Iran’s official news agency IRNA confirmed that the foreign minister arrived in Islamabad early Sunday evening following talks in Oman.
In a parallel development, Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB reported that Araghchi held a telephone conversation with Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, during which both sides discussed the evolving regional situation and diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions in the Middle East.
The developments highlight Tehran’s ongoing engagement with key regional players, as it pursues parallel diplomacy with Gulf countries and neighbouring states amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Earlier in the day, Haitham bin Tariq Al Said met Araghchi in Muscat, where both sides discussed rising regional tensions and ongoing conflicts. They underscored the importance of dialogue and agreed that diplomacy remains the only sustainable path toward peace.
Oman reaffirmed its role as a mediator, with the Sultan emphasizing the need to de-escalate tensions, protect civilians, and pursue political solutions. Araghchi welcomed Muscat’s efforts and appreciated Oman’s consistent support for negotiations, stressing that regional cooperation is vital for stability.
The talks also covered bilateral relations, with both sides agreeing to maintain close coordination in the coming days. The meeting comes at a sensitive time, as efforts to revive dialogue between Iran and the United States remain stalled.
Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated that Tehran would not engage in negotiations under pressure or threats, emphasizing that diplomacy must be grounded in mutual respect.
According to Iranian media, Pezeshkian criticised the United States for alleged violations during the ceasefire process, particularly citing maritime restrictions that he said contradict the spirit of the agreement and the United Nations Charter. He warned that such actions raise doubts about Washington’s commitment to diplomacy.
The Iranian president also cautioned that any renewed confrontation involving the United States and Israel could have serious implications for regional and global stability, reaffirming Iran’s commitment to safeguarding its national interests.
These remarks were made during a 50-minute telephone conversation with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The two leaders discussed the evolving regional situation and ongoing peace efforts.
Prime Minister Shehbaz welcomed the recent visit of an Iranian delegation led by Araghchi to Islamabad and appreciated Tehran’s diplomatic outreach. He noted that continued engagement with global leaders has helped build broader support for negotiations.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and stability, the prime minister also highlighted recent high-level interactions between Iranian officials and Pakistan’s military leadership.
President Pezeshkian thanked Pakistan for its efforts to ease tensions and expressed confidence in strengthening bilateral ties. He emphasized Iran’s commitment to maintaining cooperative relations with neighbouring and Gulf countries based on principles of good neighbourliness.
Following his Islamabad visit, Araghchi had travelled to Oman for further consultations and is expected to continue his diplomatic engagements, potentially including a visit to Russia.
The latest developments underscore ongoing regional efforts to prevent escalation, even as tensions between Tehran and Washington remain unresolved.
