Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, currently visiting China, stated that peace talks aimed at ending the conflict between the United States and Iran are moving in the right direction. He described the world as being at a critical moment and expressed gratitude to China for its support in promoting peace.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a deal to end the war with Iran could be reached as soon as today, while reaffirming Israel’s right to self-defense. Speaking in New Delhi, Rubio noted that progress might have been expected overnight or today but cautioned against drawing conclusions prematurely.

US President Donald Trump separately announced on his social media platform that the United States would maintain its naval blockade on Iran until any agreement is finalized, certified, and signed. The developments highlight ongoing diplomatic efforts involving multiple nations to de-escalate tensions in the region.