Pakistan and Qatar are intensifying diplomatic efforts to prevent a renewed military confrontation between the United States and Iran, with a US-approved mediation proposal reportedly seeking to revive
nuclear negotiations, resolve the dispute over Tehran’s frozen assets and establish a framework for de-escalation.
According to a top security source, Pakistan Field Marshal Asim Munir has carried the proposal to Tehran as Washington and Tehran signal approval of the mediation plan. The initiative comes amid renewed warnings of a possible return to hostilities, raising concerns that the fragile diplomatic space between the two countries could narrow further.
A key element of the proposed framework is Iran’s reported agreement to allow unannounced visits by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to its nuclear sites. Such inspections could help address international concerns over Tehran’s nuclear programme by allowing the UN nuclear watchdog to assess activities at facilities covered by the proposed arrangement.
The proposal also seeks to break the deadlock over approximately $6 billion in Iranian funds held in restricted accounts at banks in Qatar. The money, linked to Iranian oil revenues previously blocked under US sanctions, was transferred to Qatar in 2023 as part of a prisoner-swap arrangement. Its use was restricted to approved humanitarian purchases, including food and medicine, under oversight mechanisms.
Under the reported mediation plan, Washington has offered the possibility of partial relief on the frozen funds in exchange for concessions from Iran on its nuclear programme. The proposed financial component could provide Tehran with an incentive to cooperate on inspections and renewed negotiations, while allowing Washington to seek greater transparency over Iran’s nuclear activities.
Munir reportedly delivered the US-approved proposal directly to Iranian officials. Qatar, which has previously served as an intermediary in negotiations involving Washington and Tehran, is also playing a role in efforts to bridge the divide.
The reported signals of approval from both capitals could create an opening for renewed diplomacy. However, the proposal’s implementation would depend on agreement over nuclear monitoring, financial restrictions and the conditions attached to any relief.
Whether the initiative can translate into a formal agreement will depend on the willingness of Washington and Tehran to turn the proposed concessions into concrete commitments.
