Israeli Military Operations in Lebanon Nearly Derail US-Iran Negotiations in Switzerland, Says Pakistan’s Deputy PM

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, has revealed that recent US-Iran negotiations in Switzerland were nearly compromised due to ongoing Israeli military operations in Lebanon, according to reports emerging Tuesday.

In a pre-recorded interview with Al Arabiya, DPM Dar noted that the diplomatic proceedings in Switzerland could have commenced several days earlier had it not been for the escalation of conflict in Lebanon, which disrupted the timeline.

Reflecting on Pakistan’s diplomatic involvement since the conflict began on February 28, Dar highlighted the nation’s role in mediating a ceasefire and hosting subsequent talks in Islamabad this past April.

“Those discussions represented the first direct dialogue between the United States and Iran in 47 years, and Pakistan was invited to serve as an official witness,” Dar stated.

The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that Pakistan’s continuous mediation efforts led to the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on June 18.

“Pakistan has remained highly active during this period. Beyond mediating between the US and Iran, we have worked to maintain connections between our regional allies and friends,” Dar told Al Arabiya.

He further explained that this engagement helped foster a regional forum comprising Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye, allowing for coordinated efforts with Gulf nations and international partners.

Describing the Burgenstock summit as the “second phase” of the negotiation process, Dar outlined three specific technical working groups tasked with addressing the nuclear issue, sanctions and frozen assets, and the situation in Lebanon.

Regarding the Lebanese crisis, Dar observed that the instability has repeatedly threatened the peace process, noting that the Swiss talks faced significant setbacks due to Israeli strikes in the region.

“Certain technical items must be concluded within 30 days, while the broader framework of the final agreement is targeted for a 60-day timeline, which may be extended by mutual consent,” he explained.

He noted that the world is already seeing the benefits of diplomatic progress, specifically mentioning stabilized energy prices and the restoration of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

Dar advocated for the Strait of Hormuz to return to its pre-conflict status, which entails a complete removal of fees and tolls to ensure unimpeded transit.

He recalled a March visit to China, stating that both Beijing and Islamabad support a five-point plan to ensure free movement through the strait.

“There should be no permits, tolls, or additional charges; sea lanes must remain open and freely navigable on both sides,” Dar said, highlighting the global energy crisis triggered by the previous closure of the vital waterway.

“There is a global understanding that there will be free movement within the waterway for at least 60 days,” he added.

When questioned about guarantees to prevent further Israeli escalations in Lebanon, Dar remarked that the role of a mediator is to persist despite obstacles. He noted that while there were moments when the deal appeared unlikely to succeed, “spoilers” who oppose the agreement have timed their actions to coincide with diplomatic milestones, such as the recent heavy bombing in Lebanon.

Dar urged the international community to exercise influence and persuade Israel to cease hostilities in Lebanon, while also expressing a commitment to reviving efforts for the implementation of the 21-point peace plan for Gaza.

Addressing concerns regarding Iran’s uranium stockpiles, Dar mentioned that Iran demonstrated flexibility during the Islamabad talks. He noted that while the US has demanded a reduction, Iran was hesitant to relinquish assets, though discussions regarding “downblending” the 60% enriched material are ongoing.

He referenced a discussion with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi regarding the technical process of downblending nuclear material to 0.7%.

Expressing optimism for a successful outcome, Dar stated: “We must be sincere to the cause; Pakistan has no vested interests. We have approached this entire process with complete sincerity and pray for wisdom and foresight for both sides.”

“I am a natural optimist, and I have full faith that through our efforts, alongside the global community and supporting regional partners, the US and Iran will reach a final agreement.”

On the subject of US sanctions, Dar confirmed that one of the three technical groups is specifically managing this issue, following up on discussions held in Islamabad.

He explained that the new MoU is structured in two phases, noting that the first phase has been successfully completed and signed. He urged observers not to doubt the “intentions of the signing parties,” adding, “We have no doubt that they are sincere and committed to moving forward.”

Concluding his remarks, Dar expressed hope that no further “negative play” would disrupt the process, adding that sanctions, nuclear issues, and the Lebanon situation will be collectively addressed during the upcoming 60-day phase.

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