Pakistan is expected to engage with the US leadership in the coming days to build consensus ahead of a proposed second summit between Washington and Tehran

DNA

ISLAMABAD: The deadline for the ongoing ceasefire between the United States and Iran, set to expire on April 21, is likely to be extended as diplomatic efforts intensify, according to well-placed sources. Pakistan has emerged as a key mediator, with its Field Marshal undertaking a crucial visit to Tehran where he met the entire Iranian civil and military leadership.

Sources said the high-level meetings focused on assessing the progress of the ceasefire and exploring the possibility of extending the deadline to allow more time for negotiations. Iran has reportedly indicated that additional time is needed, particularly to address complex issues surrounding its nuclear program, including the contentious matter of nuclear rollback.

Pakistan is expected to engage with the US leadership in the coming days to build consensus ahead of a proposed second summit between Washington and Tehran. Diplomatic insiders suggest that Islamabad may formally request both sides to agree on an extension of the ceasefire to avoid escalation and create space for meaningful dialogue.

The United States has been pressing Iran to hand over its nuclear waste as part of a broader agreement aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear capabilities. However, Iran has so far shown reluctance to accept this demand. While US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran is prepared to make concessions, Iranian officials have publicly maintained a firm stance, signaling that they are not ready to compromise on what they describe as their sovereign nuclear rights.

Tehran has, however, appreciated Pakistan’s mediation efforts, acknowledging Islamabad’s constructive role in facilitating dialogue. Nonetheless, Iranian leadership has made it clear that while it values diplomatic engagement, it will not yield on core strategic interests.

With time running short, all eyes are now on whether Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach can secure an extension and pave the way for a sustainable resolution.