Pakistan Steps Up Mediation Efforts for Iran-US Deal: PM Shehbaz Sharif Arrives in Qatar, Field Marshal Asim Munir in Tehran

Islamabad/Doha/Tehran (International Desk): Pakistan has intensified its diplomatic efforts to facilitate a deal between Iran and the United States. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Doha, Qatar, on Thursday morning after his official visit to Saudi Arabia, while Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, is actively engaged in Tehran as part of high-level talks.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is on a four-day official tour (April 15–18, 2026) to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Türkiye. In Qatar, he is expected to hold crucial meetings with Qatari leadership, including Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, focusing on bilateral cooperation, regional peace and security, and the latest developments in Iran-US negotiations.
During his stay in Saudi Arabia, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman praised Prime Minister Sharif’s efforts in the Iran-US peace process and commended Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives. The Crown Prince also appreciated Sharif’s contributions to Pakistan’s economic development and the strengthening of Saudi-Pakistani strategic partnership.
Meanwhile, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, accompanied by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and a high-level delegation, arrived in Tehran on Wednesday. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi welcomed the delegation at the airport. The visit is part of Pakistan’s ongoing mediation to bridge gaps and prepare for a possible second round of direct talks between Tehran and Washington.
Pakistan successfully facilitated a ceasefire between Iran and the US earlier this month and hosted the first round of negotiations in Islamabad. Pakistani leadership, including PM Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and Field Marshal Asim Munir, continues to engage all parties to ensure lasting regional stability.
Qatar has welcomed Pakistan’s mediation role and the ceasefire agreement. Analysts note that Pakistan’s unique position — with strong ties across the Gulf, Iran, and the West — makes it an effective facilitator in de-escalating Middle East tensions.