Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said that Israel’s continued attacks on Lebanon almost derailed the US‑Iran talks held in Switzerland on Sunday.
In an exclusive interview with Al Arabiya recorded before the negotiations began, Dar remarked, “The talks in Switzerland could have started a few days earlier, but Israel’s actions in Lebanon halted everything.”
At the start of the interview, Dar recalled Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement since the conflict began on February 28, noting the Pakistan‑brokered ceasefire and the subsequent talks in Islamabad in April.
He added, “Those discussions marked the first direct US‑Iran talks in 47 years, and Pakistan was asked to serve as a witness.”
Dar said Pakistan’s sustained efforts after the Islamabad talks led to the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding on June 18.
“During this period we have been very active,” he told Al Arabiya, “not only mediating between the United States and Iran but also keeping our regional allies and friends engaged.”
He continued, “This process has given rise to a regional forum comprising Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, while we also work closely with Gulf states and international partners.”
Turning to the Burgenstock summit, Dar described it as “phase two” of the negotiation process.
He explained that three technical groups have been established: one focuses on the nuclear issue, a second on sanctions and frozen assets, and a third on Lebanon.
Regarding Lebanon, Dar observed that the issue has repeatedly surfaced throughout the peace process, and he warned that the Switzerland talks were nearly derailed by Israel’s attacks in the country.
“Certain items can be resolved within 30 days,” he said, “but the overall agreement is expected to take about 60 days, with the possibility of mutual extension.”
Dar noted that early benefits of the emerging peace are already visible, including lower energy prices and the resumption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
He insisted that the Strait of Hormuz must return to its pre‑conflict condition, meaning “no fees, no tolls whatsoever.”
Dar also recalled his March visit to China, where both countries agreed, under a five‑point plan, to ensure free navigation of the strait.
“There should be no permits, no tolls, no extra charges—just unhindered movement of vessels on both sides,” he said, pointing out that the energy crisis triggered by the strait’s closure underscores the need for open sea lanes.
“This is the global consensus,” Dar added, noting that at least two months of free passage are anticipated.
When asked about guarantees to curb Israeli actions in Lebanon, he replied, “The mediator’s role is to persist and keep trying. There were moments when success seemed doubtful, but we never lost hope. Independently, spoilers who opposed the deal emerged, and shortly after the agreement was signed we saw intensified bombing in Lebanon.”
Dar urged wisdom to prevail and called on the international community to convince, persuade and influence Israel to cease its attacks in Lebanon.
He also mentioned plans to revive efforts aimed at implementing Gaza’s 21‑point peace plan.
More to follow.
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