ISLAMABAD: Israel has derailed Islamabad-backed negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire between Iran and the United States, triggering fresh escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Diplomatic sources revealed that just hours before a critical meeting, Israeli strikes on Iranian targets shattered momentum built through Pakistani mediation efforts involving multiple regional players.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had expressed strong optimism only the previous evening, stating both sides were nearing the negotiating table under Islamabad’s facilitation.
Regional mediators including Egypt, Turkey and Saudi Arabia had worked closely with Pakistan to propose a 45-day ceasefire framework that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and pave the way for permanent peace talks.
Iran conveyed its response through Pakistani channels, rejecting temporary pauses and insisting on a comprehensive end to hostilities along with sanctions relief and reconstruction guarantees.
The proposal included ten key clauses addressing safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz, lifting of sanctions and regional de-escalation measures.
Talks had gained traction in March when foreign ministers from Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt and Saudi Arabia met in Islamabad to coordinate efforts for direct or indirect US-Iran dialogue hosted in the Pakistani capital.
Dar publicly announced that both Washington and Tehran expressed confidence in Pakistan’s role, with Islamabad ready to facilitate meaningful discussions for a lasting settlement.
China extended full support to the initiative, viewing it as a vital step to contain regional instability and protect global energy flows.
Yet progress collapsed overnight as Israeli forces launched attacks on Iranian petrochemical plants and military sites, including strikes near key gas fields.
Iran responded swiftly with missile and drone barrages targeting Saudi Arabia’s Jubail industrial complex, one of the world’s largest petrochemical hubs.
Explosions and fires erupted at SABIC facilities and energy installations in Jubail, causing significant damage and raising fears of broader oil supply disruptions.
Saudi air defences intercepted several incoming projectiles, but debris impacted nearby infrastructure, highlighting the vulnerability of Gulf energy assets.
This exchange has inflicted severe damage on the fragile diplomatic process, pushing the conflict into its sixth week since major US-Israeli operations began on February 28.
Over 1,900 people have been reported killed in Iran alone, with additional casualties across Israel, Lebanon and Gulf states from retaliatory strikes.
Millions have been displaced, while repeated Iranian attacks on shipping routes have already spiked global oil prices and threatened international trade.
Israeli officials have indicated readiness for the war to continue for at least another two weeks, extending beyond initial timelines set by Washington.
US President Donald Trump issued fresh ultimatums, warning of devastating consequences if Iran fails to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by the latest deadline.
Iranian leaders countered by demanding reparations, guarantees against future aggression and a permanent cessation rather than short-term halts that could allow adversaries to regroup.
Pakistani officials expressed deep concern over the timing of the Israeli action, which coincided precisely when both parties appeared close to sitting down.
Dar had earlier condemned unwarranted attacks and urged all sides to prioritise diplomacy in line with international law and UN principles.
The breakdown underscores repeated accusations from Tehran that Israel deliberately sabotages negotiation efforts to prolong military operations.
Regional analysts note that such tactics risk widening the conflict, drawing in more actors and causing irreversible economic harm.
Global energy markets face heightened volatility, with Jubail’s role in Saudi petrochemical output representing a critical node now under threat.
Pakistan continues quiet back-channel contacts while emphasising the need for Muslim unity and restraint to prevent further escalation.
The episode highlights the complex interplay of military action and diplomacy in one of the most volatile regions, where a single strike can undo months of careful mediation.
Observers warn that without urgent revival of talks, the cycle of retaliation could lead to even greater destruction and long-term instability across the Middle East.