What does the China-Pakistan plan for the Iran crisis mean for a post-war order?

Diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt convened in Pakistan on Sunday to discuss ending the month-long conflict in the Middle East between Iran, the US, and Israel. The war, triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has resulted in over 3,000 deaths and threatens global oil supplies due to Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz. The US and Israel are not participating in the Islamabad talks, but the US has reportedly offered Iran a 15-point peace proposal via Pakistan. The meetings aim to establish direct dialogue between the US and Iran, who have primarily communicated through mediators during the conflict, which has been further complicated by the entry of Yemen's Houthi rebels.

In Islamabad on March 29, 2026, Pakistan hosted a two-day meeting of foreign ministers from Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt to encourage de-escalation between the US and Iran amid ongoing conflict. The initiative evolved from discussions in Riyadh and aims to establish a coordinated regional effort pushing for direct talks between the US and Iran. Pakistan is acting as a central mediator, relaying messages between Washington and Tehran. Prior to the meeting, the Pakistani Prime Minister spoke with the Iranian President, who emphasized the need for confidence-building measures before direct dialogue due to past experiences of attacks during negotiations. China has also expressed support for Pakistan's mediation efforts.

Pakistan is hosting top diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt in Islamabad for two-day talks focused on de-escalating the conflict between the US and Iran. The meetings, led by Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, aim to foster dialogue and diplomacy as a solution to the escalating tensions. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who thanked Pakistan for its mediation efforts. Pakistan is acting as a key communicator between the US and Iran, relaying messages in an attempt to find a resolution to the conflict. The talks are considered a critical step towards finding a viable diplomatic solution.

On the 30th day of the US-Israel war on Iran, foreign ministers from Pakistan, Turkiye, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia convened in Islamabad to discuss ending the escalating conflict. The diplomatic efforts come as Yemen's Houthis have joined the war, firing missiles at Israel. Meanwhile, Tehran has threatened retaliatory attacks on US and Israeli universities after bombings of Iranian universities. Recent US-Israeli strikes have resulted in casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure within Iran, including attacks on residential areas and a water facility. Iran has also accused the US and Israel of attacking the residence of the president of the Iraqi Kurdish region. In response, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps claims to have targeted Israeli and American industries and military assets.

The US and Israel's war on Iran is escalating, with increased strikes reported by Al Jazeera on March 26, 2026. Despite US President Trump's claims of ongoing peace talks, Iran denies negotiations and vows to continue resisting US aggression. Iran retaliated with strikes against Israel and Gulf countries, further destabilizing the Middle East and driving up global energy and food prices. The US has reportedly targeted a significant portion of Iran's missile and drone production facilities. Iran has warned of potential attempts to occupy one of its islands and is considering levying tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a move that could give them leverage in any future negotiations. Civilian casualties have been reported, including the deaths of two teenagers in a US-Israeli strike.

Tensions are escalating between Iran and the US in the Strait of Hormuz region as of March 2026. Despite Iran's denial, the US claims ongoing talks are occurring, but warns of potential strikes if negotiations fail. The US has threatened Iran with significant retaliation if provoked. In Iran, pro-government rallies have taken place in Tehran. Meanwhile, Israel has activated its Iron Dome defense system to intercept missiles launched from Iran towards Tel Aviv. Israeli airstrikes have also been reported in Lebanon.

Oil prices surged, with Brent crude topping $104 a barrel on Thursday, after Iran denied engaging in direct talks with the United States regarding de-escalation of the conflict. The price increase reverses a dip from the previous day when reports suggested a potential peace plan. Asian stock markets also reacted negatively to the news. Iran's denial and the White House's warning of further consequences if Iran doesn't accept defeat have heightened concerns about the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil supply route. Since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28, oil prices have risen over 40%, leading to energy conservation measures globally, and analysts predict further increases until the Strait is secure.

On March 25, 2026, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is not currently engaged in negotiations with the United States and will not negotiate while under attack. This statement directly contradicts claims made a day prior by U.S. President Trump, who asserted that the U.S. was already in talks with Iranian officials. The Iranian government denies President Trump's claim and maintains its position of refusing dialogue with the U.S. under present circumstances. The location of these alleged talks was not specified in either statement. The reason for Iran's refusal is due to the ongoing perceived aggression from the U.S.

Amidst ongoing conflict in the Middle East, China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, urged Iran to engage in negotiations with the United States. In a phone call on Tuesday, Wang told Iranian diplomat Abbas Araghchi that dialogue is preferable to conflict, emphasizing the need for all parties to initiate the peace process swiftly. This call for talks comes as the conflict threatens to escalate, impacting global ties, particularly those of Gulf states. The status of potential peace talks remains unclear, especially given Iran's rejection of a reported US ceasefire proposal. China's intervention highlights its growing diplomatic role in the region.

In March 2026, amidst the ongoing war between the US/Israel and Iran, the US, under President Trump, reportedly sent a 15-point ceasefire plan to Iran via Pakistan. The plan aims to establish a one-month ceasefire for negotiations to end the conflict, which began in late February and has caused significant casualties, disrupted shipping, and roiled global markets. Iran has consistently denied engaging in talks with the US, dismissing Trump's claims of productive conversations. The war was initiated by the US and Israel while negotiations with Iran were ongoing. Iran's response included closing the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on US assets, leading to soaring oil prices. While reports of the US plan have slightly calmed markets, the possibility of successful negotiations remains uncertain due to the conflicting demands of both sides.

Amid ongoing conflict, Iran rejected a US ceasefire proposal, offering its own negotiation plan, though stating it has "no intention of negotiating for now." Despite this, President Trump claimed Iran desires a deal but fears internal and external repercussions. China urged dialogue between the US and Iran, seeing a "glimmer of hope for peace." Israel conducted strikes across Iran, including in Isfahan, targeting Iranian infrastructure. Kuwait arrested six individuals allegedly involved in a Hezbollah plot to assassinate Gulf leaders. The US military reported hitting over 10,000 targets in Iran, claiming significant damage to Iranian naval and missile capabilities.

Iran rejected a US ceasefire proposal for the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and launched further attacks on Israel and Gulf Arab countries, including a strike at Kuwait International Airport on Wednesday. Simultaneously, Israel launched air strikes on Tehran, and the US deployed additional troops to the region. An Iranian official stated that Iran has not engaged in ceasefire talks and has its own demands to end the fighting. The US proposal, transmitted via Pakistan, reportedly included sanctions relief, limitations on Iran's nuclear program and missiles, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal also included restrictions on Iran’s support for armed groups.

Amidst ongoing Middle East tensions, Iran has reportedly dismissed a US proposal for a ceasefire and denied engaging in negotiations, despite claims from the White House that talks are ongoing. Iranian officials stated they have no plans for negotiations. The US, through Pakistan, presented a 15-point proposal to Iran. Meanwhile, other key developments include Israel conducting strikes in Iran, Hezbollah rejecting truce talks, and reports of Russia sending drones to Iran. The UN chief has called for an end to the "out of control" war, while Israel is reportedly expanding its occupation of southern Lebanon. The situation remains volatile, with the US warning of severe consequences if talks fail.

Amidst escalating tensions and strikes across the Middle East in late March 2026, the US, through Pakistani intermediaries, proposed a ceasefire plan to Iran, which was rejected. Iran dismissed the US attempts at negotiation, with a military spokesperson claiming the US was only negotiating with itself. The US press secretary stated that talks were ongoing, but threatened further strikes if unsuccessful. These developments occurred as the US prepared to deploy additional troops to the region. Recent events included a drone attack on Kuwait International Airport, and strikes in Tabriz, Iran.

Amidst ongoing conflict initiated by a US-Israeli attack on February 28, 2026, Iran's negotiating position appears to have strengthened. Despite claims from the US and Israel that Iran's military capabilities have been significantly degraded, Iran has demonstrated its ability to retaliate, including attacks on Qatar's gas site and Israeli cities. Indirect communication channels between the US and Iran have been established through Egypt, Turkiye, and Pakistan. Iran now seeks not only a ceasefire but also long-term economic and security guarantees, including payment repatriations, assurances against future attacks, and a new regulatory framework for the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts caution that Iran will likely seek concessions that the US and Gulf nations will be unable to agree to.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that Pakistan is prepared to host talks between the US and Iran to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This offer comes after Iran's foreign ministry indicated receiving messages from friendly countries suggesting a US request for negotiations. Sharif stated that Pakistan welcomes efforts to pursue dialogue for regional peace and stability. He also mentioned speaking with Iran's President, offering Pakistan's assistance in achieving a comprehensive settlement. Pakistan's Foreign Minister has also been in contact with his Iranian counterpart. The offer is contingent on agreement from both the US and Iran.

Pakistan has offered to host talks between the United States and Iran, following reports of mediation efforts by Pakistan, Turkiye, and Egypt. This offer comes amid conflicting claims, with US President Donald Trump asserting ongoing negotiations while Iran denies any such talks. Pakistan's Foreign Ministry and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have publicly stated their willingness to facilitate discussions in Islamabad. Reports suggest potential meeting formats involving high-level officials from both countries. These efforts follow recent communications between Pakistani and Iranian leaders, as well as discussions between the Pakistani army chief and President Trump, aiming to de-escalate tensions and address the ongoing conflict.

President Trump claimed "very good" talks with Iran were underway, potentially mediated by Pakistan, to avert a U.S. bombing ultimatum regarding the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement came shortly before U.S. markets opened, amidst concerns about Iran's closure of the strait. Trump vaguely described the deal's terms, including preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and potential regime change. However, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the reported Iranian interlocutor, denied any negotiations and accused Trump of manipulating markets. Despite the denials, Iran acknowledged receiving messages from friendly countries, including Pakistan, suggesting a renewed diplomatic push involving regional powers like Egypt and Turkey. The goal appears to be de-escalation and preventing further economic damage.

Violence in the Middle East has intensified, with Iran launching barrages at Israel, Gulf Arab states, and northern Iraq, while Israeli and US warplanes strike targets in Iran. The US is considering deploying 3,000 airborne troops to the region, potentially joining marines already en route, amid speculation of actions like securing the Strait of Hormuz or blockading Iran's oil hub. Despite the ongoing conflict and rising casualties, Donald Trump claims the US is engaged in "very good" talks with Iran to end the war, a claim unconfirmed by intermediaries or the Iranian government. Iranian officials deny any ongoing negotiations, citing distrust stemming from past attacks during previous talks. The conflict is entering its third week.

Pakistan faces a delicate balancing act as tensions escalate between Iran and its allies. Islamabad is attempting to mediate between the U.S. and Iran, with potential talks being held in Pakistan. However, a new defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, committing Pakistan to Riyadh's defense, complicates its relationship with Tehran. Pakistan and Iran share a 565-mile border, deep trade ties, and significant religious connections, including Pakistan's large Shiite population. Recent Iranian strikes prompted an emergency visit by Pakistan's army chief to Saudi Arabia to discuss joint responses, testing the new defense pact. Maintaining ties with both Saudi Arabia and Iran is crucial for Pakistan's economic and strategic interests.

Donald Trump extended a deadline regarding Iran by five days, claiming productive talks between the US and Iran had occurred. Trump suggested a potential deal to end the conflict was possible. However, Iran denied these claims, stating no talks with the US have taken place since the recent bombing campaign. The extension followed heightened tensions, including threats from both sides regarding shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and potential retaliatory attacks. Several countries, including Oman, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan, are reportedly involved in efforts to mediate. Despite Trump's claims, violence continues across the Middle East.

Following claims by US President Donald Trump of "productive" talks with Iran to end the ongoing war, senior Iranian officials have denied that any such discussions have taken place. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that the claim is "fakenews" used to manipulate markets and help the US and Israel escape their current predicament. This denial was echoed by Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei, who acknowledged receiving messages from friendly countries about US requests for negotiations. The denials come as the US-Israeli war on Iran enters its fourth week, with continued attacks and rising global energy prices due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump had previously threatened to attack Iranian power plants but postponed strikes for five days pending the supposed talks.