US Opens Backchannel Talks with Iran via Pakistan Amid Ongoing Military Pressure

Washington, March 2026: The United States has initiated a diplomatic channel with Iran through Pakistan, signalling a potential path toward de-escalation even as military operations continue. The development reflects a dual-track strategy by Washington—combining sustained military pressure with renewed diplomatic outreach after weeks of heightened tensions.

According to Steve Witkoff, the US has presented a comprehensive 15-point framework outlining the basis for a possible peace agreement. The proposal has been conveyed to Tehran through Islamabad, which is acting as a mediator between the two sides. Witkoff revealed this during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Donald Trump, noting that the outreach has already generated “strong and positive messaging” through indirect talks.

The diplomatic initiative comes despite the continuation of US military strikes under “Operation Epic Fury,” which American officials claim has significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities. The administration appears to be leveraging its battlefield advantage to push for negotiations on terms aligned with its strategic objectives.

Witkoff acknowledged that earlier diplomatic efforts had failed due to Iran’s unwillingness to meet key US demands. These include halting uranium enrichment, dismantling nuclear facilities, and curbing missile development programs. He indicated that during previous rounds of engagement, Iranian negotiators were reluctant to make concessions, instead using talks as a means to delay decisive action.

He further stated that the US negotiating team had concluded Iran was attempting to buy time, anticipating a shift in American leadership that might adopt a softer stance. According to Witkoff, Washington had exhausted all avenues for a peaceful resolution before opting for military intervention, marking a significant turning point in the conflict.

President Trump reinforced the administration’s position, asserting that Iran is now under mounting pressure to return to the negotiating table. He suggested that Tehran faces a clear choice: accept the proposed terms or risk continued military action. The President maintained that recent operations have altered the strategic balance, strengthening the US position in any potential negotiations.

Vice President JD Vance echoed this assessment, stating that the military campaign has provided Washington with greater leverage. He emphasised that the United States now has the capacity to deploy both diplomatic and military tools to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a central objective of US policy.

Witkoff also revealed that several regional players have expressed interest in facilitating a peaceful resolution, indicating growing international concern over the conflict. These outreach efforts suggest that there is increasing diplomatic momentum aimed at preventing further escalation.

However, he cautioned that the negotiations remain highly sensitive. Details of the 15-point framework have not been made public, in line with instructions to maintain strict confidentiality. This approach, officials say, is necessary to preserve the integrity of the discussions and avoid undermining progress through premature disclosures.

The US has also delivered a firm message to Tehran, warning against any miscalculation that could escalate the situation further. While diplomatic channels are now open, the continuation of military operations underscores the fragile nature of the current phase.

As backchannel talks gain traction, the coming weeks are likely to be critical in determining whether the conflict moves toward resolution or further intensification.

(The content of this article is sourced from a news agency and has not been edited by the Mavericknews30 team.)