China has launched a fresh diplomatic initiative to help restart stalled negotiations between the United States and Iran, with Pakistan emerging as a key intermediary in efforts to end the nearly five-month-old conflict, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
The latest push follows exploratory meetings in Islamabad during a recent visit by Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, who held talks with senior Pakistani officials and military leadership. The visit, his second in less than two weeks, focused on assessing prospects for reviving dialogue between Washington and Tehran.
Chinese officials have expressed support for Pakistan’s mediation efforts, emphasizing the need to restore peace and stability in the Gulf region. Beijing is reportedly concerned that continued hostilities, including disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea shipping routes, are threatening global trade and China’s economic interests.
Despite renewed diplomatic momentum, officials caution that significant obstacles remain before formal negotiations can resume. Pakistani sources say halting attacks on Gulf states has become a key precondition for restarting talks, a message that has been conveyed to Iranian authorities.
The renewed mediation effort comes as U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that Washington and Tehran are in contact but acknowledged that Iran is “not yet ready” to finalize an agreement, underscoring the uncertainty surrounding any breakthrough.
Analysts say China’s involvement reflects its growing diplomatic role in the Middle East and its strategic interest in ensuring regional stability, particularly as prolonged conflict continues to disrupt critical energy supplies and international shipping routes.