ISLAMABAD: German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has disclosed that representatives from the United States and Iran are preparing for direct talks very soon in Pakistan, marking a potential breakthrough in the escalating Middle East conflict.
The announcement comes after confirmed indirect contacts between Tehran and Washington proved successful, with both sides now ready for face-to-face negotiations.
Wadephul told Deutschlandfunk radio that, based on his information, preparations for the meeting are complete and it appears set to occur very soon on Pakistani soil.
This revelation has ignited global hopes for de-escalation amid a conflict that began in late February with US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.
Pakistan has emerged as the key mediator, relaying messages and a detailed 15-point US peace proposal to Iran for deliberation.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar publicly confirmed that indirect talks are actively taking place through Islamabad, with Turkey and Egypt extending support to the initiative.
The US proposal reportedly includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz to all shipping, dismantling aspects of Iran’s nuclear programme and curbing missile capabilities.
Iranian officials are reviewing the framework, which aims to end the war and restore stability in the Gulf region.
The ongoing standoff has severely disrupted global energy markets, with Iran blocking adversary vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
That critical chokepoint handles nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply, triggering sharp price surges.
Brent crude oil prices climbed above 107 dollars per barrel, up from pre-war levels around 65 dollars, sending shockwaves through international economies.
President Donald Trump responded by extending his ultimatum to Iran until April 6, pausing threatened strikes on energy facilities for ten days.
Trump stated on social media that discussions are progressing well, even as a US naval group carrying 2,500 Marines moves closer to the Middle East.
Market reaction has been swift, with oil prices easing slightly and stocks rallying on reports of the impending talks.
Analysts view Pakistan’s neutral diplomatic position and longstanding ties with both nations as making it the ideal neutral venue for such high-stakes dialogue.
The German minister’s confirmation adds significant weight, as Berlin closely monitors developments without direct participation in the process.
This potential direct engagement could represent a turning point after weeks of heightened tensions and regional instability.
If successful, the Pakistan-hosted meeting may open the door to broader ceasefire agreements and long-term peace efforts in the Gulf.
Regional observers note that the indirect phase has already built sufficient momentum for the two sides to sit across the table.
The development underscores Pakistan’s growing role as a trusted intermediary in complex international disputes.
With the April 6 deadline looming, global attention remains fixed on whether these talks will yield concrete results.
The stakes are immense, given the conflict’s impact on energy security and worldwide financial stability.
Diplomatic sources indicate both Washington and Tehran recognise the urgency of averting further escalation.
The German disclosure has thus amplified expectations for a swift and substantive outcome in Pakistan.