Ex‑RAW Chief: Pakistan Only Offered Venue, Not Mediated Talks

March 31, 2026

New Delhi, March 31, 2026 – Former Vikram Sood has stated that Pakistan’s involvement in peace talks between the United States and Iran is limited to offering a venue for potential negotiations and does not amount to actively mediating between the two countries. His remarks come amid conflicting reports over Islamabad’s role in diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Sood stressed that hosting a discussion space on behalf of rival parties is not the same as facilitating substantive dialogue between them. This distinction underscores the complex diplomatic dynamics surrounding the U.S.–Iran tensions and Pakistan’s delicate positioning as a regional actor.

Regional Diplomatic Efforts and Claims

In recent days, Pakistan has publicly positioned itself as ready to host U.S.-Iran talks, with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stating that Islamabad could serve as the venue for meaningful negotiations aimed at de-escalating the crisis. However, there has been no official confirmation from either Washington or Tehran that direct peace talks are underway. Meanwhile, Iran has denied engaging in formal negotiations with the United States, asserting that only proposals have been communicated through intermediaries rather than direct dialogue.

Expert Context and Diplomatic Reality

Analysts say Pakistan’s offer to host talks reflects its intent to play a constructive diplomatic role, even as uncertainties persist over how, when, or whether direct negotiations between the U.S. and Iran will actually occur. Hosting a venue is viewed as symbolic unless both sides formally agree to engage in substantive discussions there.