The White House on Wednesday applauded Pakistan‘s mediatory role in U.S.-Iran talks, signaling that a potential round of negotiations would also be held in Islamabad.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the talks will “very likely be in the same place as they were last time.”
Her remarks came as Pakistani leaders were visiting Iran and Saudi Arabia as part of its diplomatic drive to build trust before the fresh negotiations.
Pakistan is “the only mediator in this negotiation. While there have been many countries around the world that want to offer their help, the President feels it’s important to streamline this communication through the Pakistanis.”
-White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt— Michael Kugelman (@MichaelKugelman) April 15, 2026
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was in Saudi Arabia for a meeting with Kingdom’s top leadership while Army Chief Asim Munir met with Iranian leaders in Tehran.
At the same, tensions are simmering between the U.S. and Iran over American military blockade on Iranian shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Praise for Pakistan’s Mediation Role
“The Pakistanis have been incredible mediators throughout this process, and we really appreciate their friendship and their efforts to bring this deal to a close,” Leavitt said,.
Emphasizing Pakistan’s role she said Islamabad “is the only mediator in this negotiation.”
White House Wednesday said: “The Pakistanis have been incredible mediators and we really appreciate their friendship and efforts to bring this deal to a close.” #USIranTalks #Pakistán pic.twitter.com/LJ1RzIgAJL
— Views&News (@ViewsNewsMag) April 15, 2026
“While there have been many countries around the world who want to offer their help, the president feels it is important to streamline this communication through the Pakistanis and that is what continues to take place.”
Leavitt Dismisses Reports of Ceasefire Extension Request
Karoline Leavitt dismissed reports of the US requesting a ceasefire extension with Iran.
“At this moment, we remain very much engaged in these talks,” she noted in response to a question at the briefing.
Pakistan Intensifies Diplomatic Efforts on U.S.–Iran Talks with High-Level Regional Visits
“You heard from the vice president directly and the president this week that these conversations are productive and ongoing, and that’s where we are right now,” Leavitt added.
As diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran continue amid a fragile regional landscape, the White House voiced strong confidence in Pakistan’s unique role as the sole mediator.
Kiran Asim is a writer who covers the U.S., Europe, South Asia, and the Middle East. Her reports and analyses look at the geostrategic issues and contemporary developments and their economic and political implications. She also writes about society and education.
