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Iran sets conditions for talks as mediation efforts gather pace

By The South Asia Times

WASHINGTON - Iran has reportedly laid out four key demands for entering negotiations with the United States, according to US sources, as diplomatic efforts intensify to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East.

The conditions include guarantees against any future US military action, compensation for war-related losses, formal control over the Strait of Hormuz, and no restrictions on its ballistic missile programme.

The developments come as Pakistan, Türkiye, and Egypt continue quiet mediation efforts aimed at bringing Washington and Tehran to the negotiating table.

Officials familiar with the discussions say backchannel contacts are ongoing, with multiple options being explored for a potential venue.

Earlier on Tuesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif publicly offered Pakistan as a host for talks in a post on X, stating that Islamabad “stands ready and honoured” to facilitate meaningful negotiations between the two sides.

The offer drew attention in Washington after President Donald Trump shared a screenshot of Sharif’s post on his Truth Social platform.

Analysts view the move as a signal of endorsement, suggesting Trump may be open to dialogue and potentially to Islamabad serving as a venue for talks.

US sources also noted that Trump held a conversation on Sunday with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, further underscoring growing diplomatic engagement involving Pakistan.

While no formal negotiations have been announced, officials say the convergence of public messaging and behind-the-scenes diplomacy indicates a possible opening for talks, even as significant gaps remain between Washington and Tehran.