Pakistan has emerged as a key backchannel facilitator in the ongoing US–Iran nuclear negotiations, with officials expressing cautious optimism that intensified diplomatic efforts could soon lead to a breakthrough, according to Al Jazeera.

Field Marshal Asim Munir recently arrived in Tehran carrying messages between Washington and Tehran as part of Pakistan’s ongoing shuttle diplomacy initiative aimed at narrowing differences between the two sides.

Senior Pakistani officials believe meaningful progress has been made on major sticking points, particularly the duration of a proposed freeze on Iran’s uranium enrichment and the handling of its stockpile of highly enriched uranium.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi received the Pakistani delegation and reportedly appreciated Islamabad’s role in facilitating communication between the two sides. Sources cited in the report said Pakistan continues to relay messages between Washington and Tehran, with efforts underway to lay the groundwork for a potential second round of direct talks.

Earlier discussions held in Islamabad concluded without a final agreement, but Pakistan has since intensified its mediatory efforts to bridge remaining gaps. Key unresolved issues include the duration of Iran’s nuclear restrictions—reportedly ranging from five to 20 years—and the fate of approximately 440 kilograms of highly enriched uranium.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is undertaking a regional diplomatic tour covering Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey, in what officials describe as a parallel effort to build broader regional consensus in support of a potential agreement.

Diplomatic momentum has also been boosted by remarks from Donald Trump, who said the world should expect an “amazing two days” and suggested that the conflict may be nearing resolution.