Kathmandu— Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, arrived in Tehran on Monday for talks with senior Iranian officials, continuing Islamabad's attempt to mediate an end to the conflict between the United States and Iran. The visit, announced by Iran’s Foreign Ministry, marks Munir’s third trip to Tehran this year as diplomatic efforts spearheaded by Pakistan face increasing challenges, including a lapsed memorandum of understanding and escalating regional tensions. Pakistani officials confirmed the trip but offered no details on its agenda, while Washington prepares new sanctions against Iran and Tehran maintains demands for concessions before resuming negotiations.

Mediation Efforts at a Crossroads

The visit follows two phone calls between Munir and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi within four days, focusing on regional developments and the pursuit of peace and stability in West Asia. It also comes after the 60-day window set out in the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) – signed by Pakistan, Iran, and the US in June – lapsed in mid-August without an extension. Iran has insisted that Washington must first lift its naval blockade, end oil sanctions, unfreeze Iranian assets abroad, and halt military threats before any progress can be made.

Regional Realignment and Rising Tensions

Munir’s trip coincides with a period of regional realignment, highlighted by the recent signing of the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye. This mutual defense pact underscores growing security cooperation in the region amid escalating tensions. The situation is further complicated by attacks on shipping lanes in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, which resulted in the deaths of three Pakistani sailors earlier this month, prompting strong condemnation from Islamabad. Additionally, the United Arab Emirates recently suspended trade with Iran following claims of ballistic missile attacks – a claim Tehran denies.

Pakistan’s Role and Potential Leverage

Analysts are divided on the extent of Pakistan's influence in brokering a resolution. Some believe that Pakistan’s neutrality gives it credibility as a facilitator, offering an “off-ramp” for all parties involved. Others suggest Qatar remains the primary channel for communication between Washington and Tehran, with Pakistan playing a more limited role focused on military-to-military dialogue. However, many agree that Pakistan's persistence is driven by self-interest, given its reliance on energy imports from the Gulf and the potential disruption to remittances if regional instability worsens. Iranian journalist Reza Afzal Samir believes Pakistan retains leverage due to its ability to create a real opening for peace.

Hormuz Negotiations and Future Prospects

Samir predicts that a final agreement regarding the Strait of Hormuz could be reached soon if Munir succeeds in bringing Iran back to the negotiating table, anticipating an announcement from Oman and Iran shortly after. Andreas Krieg, however, cautions that meaningful progress hinges on securing reciprocal movement from the United States, specifically a deconfliction arrangement for the Strait of Hormuz and restraint from escalation through Yemen or Iraq. Without such commitments, he suggests the two sides may continue down a path towards further conflict.

Munir is expected to meet Iran’s newly appointed senior military leadership during his visit, signaling continued efforts by key regional mediators to revive talks between Iran and the US despite ongoing challenges and shifting alliances.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.