TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Friday that there has been “slight progress” in discussions with Iran. This comes as Pakistan’s military chief visits Tehran to mediate a peace agreement, while concerns grow over the potential resumption of conflict.
Rubio’s comments followed U.S. President Donald Trump, who mentioned he was holding back on a military response to Iran, citing ongoing “serious negotiations.” Trump has warned that the ceasefire established in mid-April might collapse if an agreement with Iran is not reached.
Rubio’s remarks were made prior to a NATO foreign ministers meeting in Helsingborg, Sweden, where discussions centered on the alliance’s role in monitoring the Strait of Hormuz post-war.
While Rubio acknowledged some movement in negotiations, he cautioned against overstating the advancements, noting there has only been “a little bit of movement.” Despite frequent claims of progress, a formal agreement remains elusive.
Trump has repeatedly issued deadlines for Tehran, only to retreat later. Although he has indicated a willingness to delay military action for negotiations, he has also initiated strikes, notably at the war’s beginning in late February. Most recently, Trump stated that he had called off attacks on Iran at the request of Middle Eastern allies.
Pakistan’s Army Chief Visits Iran for Peace Talks
In a continued effort to broker peace, Pakistan’s army chief arrived in Tehran on Friday, marking the third round of discussions with Iranian officials. Field Marshal Asim Munir is accompanied by Pakistan’s interior minister, who has conducted two previous meetings in Tehran this week.
Military Actions in the Region
Reports indicate that Saudi Arabia and the UAE have launched separate military strikes against Iran and Iranian-affiliated militias in Iraq. Targets included Iranian military sites, particularly those related to the Kataib Hezbollah militia. Regional officials emphasized that these actions were coordinated and disclosed to relevant parties prior to execution. The UAE has stated that its military actions are strictly defensive in nature.
