Mediators have stepped up efforts to prevent the collapse of the month-long ceasefire between Washington and Tehran. Pakistani military chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir arrived in Tehran on Friday with a delegation, signaling heightened diplomatic activity as fears of renewed conflict grow. Qatar has also sent officials to Iran to support negotiations, though the timing of their visit remains unclear.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said deep differences persist between the two sides, emphasizing that the current focus is solely on halting hostilities. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking in Sweden, acknowledged some progress but noted that diplomats have yet to reach a final agreement. The talks remain stalled over Iran’s nuclear program and control of the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

US officials maintain cautious optimism but warn that the situation is fragile. President Trump has delayed a major strike on Iran at the request of Gulf leaders seeking more time for diplomacy. Any deal is expected to hinge on issues including enriched uranium stockpiles and freedom of navigation through the Hormuz Strait.