President Donald Trump faces a critical legal deadline on Friday that could determine the future of US military operations against Iran, even as his administration signals it may rely on a controversial legal interpretation to bypass congressional approval.

Under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, a US president must terminate military action within 60 days of notifying Congress unless lawmakers authorise the operation.

The Trump administration formally notified Congress on March 2 following joint US-Israeli strikes launched on February 28, setting up a May 1 deadline.

But administration officials now argue that the deadline may not apply, claiming that a ceasefire with Iran — in place since April 7 — effectively ended “hostilities” under the law. A senior official told reporters the conflict had “terminated” for War Powers purposes, allowing the White House to continue operations without seeking congressional approval.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth reinforced that position during congressional testimony on Thursday, saying the statutory clock “pauses or stops in a ceasefire.”

The claim has triggered sharp pushback from lawmakers and legal experts, who argue that the War Powers Resolution contains no such provision.

Democratic Senator Tim Kaine rejected the interpretation outright, saying “the statute does not allow the president to suspend the 60-day limit” based on a truce. His objection reflects broader concerns among Democrats that the administration is attempting to sidestep Congress’s constitutional authority to declare war.

The War Powers Resolution was enacted in the aftermath of the Vietnam War to prevent presidents from engaging in prolonged military conflicts without legislative oversight. It requires presidents to either obtain congressional authorisation or withdraw forces within 60 days, with a possible 30-day extension in limited circumstances.

Legal analysts say the administration’s reliance on a ceasefire loophole is highly questionable. Experts note that the law makes no mention of ceasefires as grounds for resetting or pausing the clock, particularly when military pressure — including a naval blockade — continues.

Some legal scholars also point out that previous presidents have stretched or ignored the War Powers Resolution, often arguing that it is unconstitutional or does not apply to limited military engagements.

However, critics argue that the scale of the current conflict with Iran — including sustained strikes and economic warfare — makes that argument harder to sustain.

The political response in Congress remains deeply divided. Democrats have repeatedly introduced resolutions to compel the administration to either seek authorisation or end military operations. All such efforts have failed in both chambers, largely along party lines.

Republicans, who control Congress by narrow margins, have mostly backed the president or avoided direct confrontation. Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated “there are no immediate plans to hold a vote authorizing the war, reflecting a broader reluctance within the party to challenge Trump’s authority.

At the same time, some Republicans have expressed unease. Senator Susan Collins said the 60-day limit “is not a suggestion; it is a requirement,” and warned that any further military action must be supported by a clear strategy and congressional approval.

The debate underscores a longstanding constitutional tension in the United States between the executive and legislative branches over war-making powers. While the president serves as commander-in-chief, the Constitution grants Congress the authority to declare war — a balance that has increasingly tilted toward the executive in recent decades.

Beyond Washington, the legal uncertainty comes amid a fragile and incomplete ceasefire between the United States and Iran. Although direct military exchanges have paused, both sides continue to exert pressure through economic and strategic means.

Iran has effectively restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global energy supplies, while the United States has responded with a naval blockade targeting Iranian oil exports. The standoff has contributed to volatility in global oil markets, with prices rising sharply in recent days amid fears of prolonged disruption.

Diplomatic efforts have so far failed to produce a breakthrough. President Trump, speaking at the White House, dismissed suggestions that negotiations had stalled, saying only a small circle of officials was aware of the details and insisting that Iran “wants to make a deal badly.”

Meanwhile, US military planners are preparing options should the ceasefire collapse. Reports indicate that the US Central Command has developed plans for a “short and powerful” wave of strikes aimed at forcing Iran back to negotiations.

Other options under consideration include securing Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium or expanding control over key maritime routes.

Analysts say the Trump administration may ultimately choose to ignore the deadline or reinterpret the ceasefire as marking the end of one phase of the conflict and the beginning of another — effectively resetting the legal clock.

Such a move would likely intensify legal and political challenges, potentially setting the stage for a broader constitutional confrontation between Congress and the White House.

WASHINGTON: The United States has instructed its diplomatic missions worldwide to refuse visas to applicants who indicate fear of returning to their home country, in a new screening measure that has drawn concern from immigration lawyers and refugee advocates.

According to a State Department cable circulated to all US embassies and consulates and cited by American media outlets, consular officers are now required to ask non-immigrant visa applicants two additional questions during interviews: whether they have experienced harm or mistreatment in their country of nationality or last habitual residence, and whether they fear such harm if they return.

Applicants who answer “yes” to either question are to be denied visas immediately, the directive states. The measure applies to visitor, student, and temporary work visa categories, including B-1/B-2, student, and certain work-related visas.

The instruction is reportedly linked to a 2025 executive order by President Donald Trump and has been attributed to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. It is part of what the administration describes as efforts to curb “asylum abuse” by preventing the use of temporary visas as a pathway to protection claims once inside the United States.

State Dept calls visa a privilege, not a right; says individuals who do not intend to comply with immigration laws shouldn’t seek entry

The information was initially circulated by commercial visa assistance companies and was later confirmed by US and international media outlets, including The Washington Post and The Guardian.

Previously, fear-of-return assessments were conducted only when individuals applied for asylum after arriving in the United States. The new policy shifts that screening to the visa application stage abroad, effectively requiring applicants to disclose potential protection claims before entry.

The State Department has defended the directive, reiterating that a US visa is a “privilege, not a right”, and that individuals who do not intend to comply with US immigration laws should not seek entry. Officials argue that the measure is aimed at ensuring the integrity of temporary visa categories.

Immigration lawyers and rights groups, however, have warned that the policy could have far-reaching consequences for legitimate travellers, including students, academics, journalists, and business professionals who may have credible fears of persecution in their home countries. They say a truthful response could automatically result in visa refusal, potentially discouraging lawful travel and undermining international protection norms.

Critics cited by The Washington Post, which first reported details of the cable, also raised concerns that the policy could affect future asylum claims made after entry into the US, though the administration has not clarified how such responses will be treated in later immigration proceedings.

Officials at the Pakistan Emb­a­s­­sy in Washington, when asked about the development, said they had not received any country-specific communication from the US government. They indicated that the measure appears to be part of a global policy shift applied uniformly across all nationalities rat­her than a Pakistan-specific action.

They added that procedural changes in US non-immigrant visa processing are typically circulated internally by the State Department to all embassies and consulates simultaneously, rather than communicated through bilateral diplomatic channels.

The directive is expected to take effect immediately, with consular posts already updating interview procedures.

Published in Dawn, April 30th, 2026

UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan told the United Nations Security Council on Monday that it remains firmly committed to a peaceful resolution of the escalating Iran-United States conflict, warning that the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz could trigger severe global economic and security consequences.

Speaking at a high-level UNSC debate on “The Safety and Protection of Waterways in the Maritime Domain”, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative Asim Iftikhar Ahmad underscored the urgent need to restore maritime stability and ensure uninterrupted global trade flows.

“Any disruptions to the routine traffic at sea gravely impact international trade with negative repercussions for global economy, and breed volatility that imperils international peace and security,” Ambassador Ahmad said, pointing to the Strait of Hormuz crisis as “a case in point”.

He cautioned that if the crisis persists, its immediate effects on energy supplies and essential commodities would ripple outward. “The first order impacts… will increasingly translate into second and third order impacts on inflation, growth, current account and balance of payment issues — no doubt, developing countries will be most affected,” he warned.

Pakistan has emerged as an active diplomatic interlocutor in recent weeks, maintaining contacts with both Tehran and Washington while coordinating with key regional actors.

Officials say Islamabad has leveraged its ties with Gulf states as well as its strategic partnership with China to encourage de-escalation and explore pathways for reopening the critical waterway.

Ambassador Ahmad highlighted these efforts at the council, noting that “Pakistan, supported by brotherly countries including China, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Egypt, has spearheaded constructive diplomatic efforts for de-escalation and the broader pursuit of stability between the United States and Iran.”

He reiterated Islamabad’s commitment to dialogue, adding that “Pakistan remains firm in its faith in diplomacy and dialogue, and will continue to resolutely undertake all possible measures” to help secure an enduring resolution.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil shipments passes, has remained effectively closed amid rising hostilities, raising alarm across global markets and prompting calls for urgent international intervention.

In his remarks, the Pakistani envoy stressed that the crisis has exposed deeper vulnerabilities in the global system. “These developments have brought home the point that resilience of global governance architecture and strategic stability are now being tested by the safety and openness of maritime waterways,” he said.

He also warned that the erosion of established norms governing international waters could have far-reaching consequences. “The rules and norms that we had collectively and painstakingly put in place… are being challenged or set aside. This is an untenable situation,” he told the council.

Pakistan’s diplomatic push comes amid intensifying international concern over the risk of a broader regional conflict. Diplomats note that Islamabad has quietly facilitated contacts, including recent engagements involving Iran’s foreign minister and regional capitals, reflecting a renewed but cautious diplomatic opening.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s broader position, Ambassador Ahmad emphasised the importance of international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, as a cornerstone of maritime order, and called for collective action anchored in cooperation and dialogue.

“As a maritime state with unwavering faith in international law and diplomacy, Pakistan would continue to engage … for preserving the hard-won gains — both in the gentle tides of peace and amity, and amid the rising storms of conflict,” he said.

He concluded with a call for unity, urging the international community to act decisively: “This is a sacred trust that history has placed upon us, and we cannot afford to fail. We must succeed, together.”

Iran, US clash at UN nuclear conference

The US and Iran traded sharp remarks over Tehran’s nuclear programme at the opening of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) review conference at the UN headquarters in New York City on Monday.

The disagreement is expected to continue through the four-week meeting, with discussions focusing on Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile — its size, location and future disposition.

The conference will also consider Iran’s election as one of 34 vice-presidents. Tehran was nominated by the Non-Aligned Movement.

Diplomatic sources at the UN told Dawn the US opposed the move, supported by Australia and the United Arab Emirates, while the United Kingdom, France and Germany expressed concern. Russia objected to singling out Iran.

The US delegation informed the meeting that Washington was “deeply shocked” that a country it accused of showing “contempt” for the treaty had been elected vice-president.

Iran’s ambassador to the IAEA in Vienna, Reza Najafi, rejected the US statement as “baseless and politically motivated”.

NPT review conferences are held every five years to assess implementation of the treaty, which aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote disarmament. A UN document released on Monday noted that, despite extensive consultations, recent review conferences have failed to agree on a substantive final document.

On February 27, Badr Albusaidi, who had been mediating between Washington and Tehran, said Iran had agreed to “zero accumulation”, “zero stockpiling” and full verification of its existing stockpile by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

However, hours later, US and Israeli strikes began.

The NPT, along with the 2015 nuclear agreement — the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action — which Washington abandoned in 2018, was intended to prevent such escalation.

Critics argue that the justification advanced by Washington and its allies — that Iran must not be allowed to pursue a nuclear programme — has drawn accusations of double standards, as Israel is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons but is not a signatory to the treaty.

US President Donald Trump’s decision to abruptly cancel a previously confirmed visit by his envoys to Islamabad underscores a defining feature of the current crisis: diplomacy that advances and retreats at the speed of presidential messaging.

Until this latest move, Washington had been sending mixed but cautiously constructive signals. Backchannel contacts and Pakistan’s mediation had raised the possibility of direct engagement in Islamabad, potentially involving Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

Mr Trump’s decision to cancel the trip does not formally end the diplomatic track, but it significantly alters its momentum. Instead of actively pursuing negotiations, the burden now shifts to Tehran, effectively placing the onus on Iran to initiate contact on US terms.

US president’s decision to cancel envoys’ trip does not formally end diplomatic track, but it significantly alters its momentum

For mediators like Pakistan, this is a notable setback. Diplomacy thrives on continuity; abrupt reversals complicate both timing and trust.

‘Erratic and provocative’

Iranian officials have long argued that Mr Trump’s public messaging disrupts diplomacy, a concern reflected in Western media coverage.

The Guardian has described Mr Trump’s “erratic and provocative commentary” as “a major obstacle” to diplomacy, noting that such statements can undermine ongoing engagement. The publication has also warned of a broader “lack of a clear exit strategy”, highlighting uncertainty in US policy direction.

The New York Times has frequently noted that President Trump uses social media as an instrument of policymaking, often announcing or shaping decisions in real time.

The Washington Post has reported that his messaging has at times complicated or contradicted official diplomatic positions, while the BBC has highlighted how such statements can move markets and influence global diplomacy.

Analysts across the Western world have pointed to the growing role of presidential messaging in shaping events in real time, where public statements can advance, complicate, or abruptly halt diplomatic efforts. In this conflict, communication is not commentary. It is action.

Mr Trump’s approach has followed a recurring pattern: escalation, pause, outreach, and sudden withdrawal.

The conflict began with what analysts described as a “shock-and-awe” phase, followed by a shift towards economic pressure and conditional diplomacy. Yet even within short timeframes, the president has moved between optimism and coercion, welcoming diplomatic openings while maintaining military pressure.

The cancellation of the Islamabad trip now reinforces this cycle.

The impact extends beyond diplomacy. Energy markets, highly sensitive to geopolitical signals, have reacted sharply throughout the crisis. Oil prices have surged, rising more than 50 per cent since the conflict began, and remain volatile amid mixed signals about war and peace.

More recently, renewed uncertainty following the cancellation of talks is likely to reinforce market instability, as traders respond not only to developments on the ground but also to shifts in tone.

Across Europe, unease is also expected to deepen. Allies already grappling with disruptions linked to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have expressed concern about the absence of a predictable US strategy.

Islamabad talks on hold, not over

Despite the setback, diplomacy is not dead. Pakistan’s effort to convene talks remains relevant, and both Washington and Tehran retain incentives to avoid a prolonged conflict. However, the dynamics have shifted.

Any future engagement is now more likely to depend on whether Iran chooses to initiate contact — and whether Washington maintains a consistent position long enough to sustain negotiations.

The core issues remain unchanged: US demands for verifiable limits on Iran’s nuclear programme, and Iran’s insistence on sanctions relief and an end to military pressure. Mr Trump’s assertion that “we have all the cards” reflects Washington’s attempt to frame the situation as leverage-driven diplomacy.

Tehran, however, is likely to interpret the cancellation differently — as inconsistency or even hesitation.

Both sides are shaping narratives for domestic and international audiences. In that contest, Mr Trump’s communication style remains both a tool and a risk: it enables rapid pressure, but complicates the credibility of long-term commitments.

What lies ahead

The immediate future is more uncertain than it was just days ago.

The Islamabad talks, once appearing within reach, are now effectively on hold. Whether they are revived will depend on Tehran’s response — and whether Washington sustains a coherent approach.

A narrow path to de-escalation still exists: a limited agreement offering phased concessions on both sides. But that path now appears more fragile.

For now, the conflict remains suspended — between diplomacy and escalation — shaped as much by sudden statements as by deliberate strategy.

Published in Dawn, April 26th, 2026

WASHINGTON: The US Department of Justice has filed a civil case seeking to revoke the citizenship of a Pakistani-born physician convicted of sexually exploiting a minor and later concealing the offences during his naturalisation process.

The doctor, Hassan Sherjil Khan, allegedly began contacting an 11-year-old girl online in 2007 or 2008 and continued communicating with her for several years, according to a statement issued by the department.

Prosecutors say the doctor coerced the minor into sending sexually explicit images and engaging in live video sexual activity. The conduct continued until around 2013.

The Justice Department further alleges that the accused travelled abroad to engage in sexual acts with the victim when she was 15.

Despite this, he applied for US citizenship in August 2012 without disclosing his involvement in the offences and was granted naturalisation in May 2013.

The victim later disclosed the abuse, after which the doctor was arrested in September 2015.

He was charged with coercion and enticement of a minor, sexual exploitation of a child, sexual exploitation of a child outside the United States, and receipt of child pornography.

In January 2016, he pleaded guilty to coercion and enticement of a minor under US federal law and was sentenced to 17 years in prison. He remains incarcerated.

At the time of his arrest, he was working as a physician.

Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate said citizenship “will not protect sexual predators from the consequences of their horrific acts” and added that the government would revoke citizenship obtained through concealment of serious crimes.

The civil complaint argues that the physician was ineligible for naturalisation because he lacked “good moral character” at the time of citizenship and allegedly made false statements or concealed material facts during the process.

The case has been filed in the Southern District of New York and is being handled by the Justice Department’s immigration litigation unit along with the US Attorney’s Office.

Officials said the allegations in the complaint have not yet been adjudicated in court.

While denaturalisation remains a relatively rare legal remedy in the United States, the Justice Department has in recent years pursued a number of such cases, particularly involving allegations of immigration fraud, concealment of criminal conduct, or national security concerns.

Under initiatives such as “Operation Janus” and later “Operation Second Look,” US authorities have reviewed thousands of naturalisation files for inconsistencies in identity, prior deportation orders, or undisclosed criminal histories. These efforts have resulted in civil proceedings against naturalised citizens from a wide range of countries.

In publicly reported cases, denaturalisation actions have been brought against individuals originating from countries including Pakistan, India, Somalia, and several former Soviet republics, often linked to allegations of fraud in asylum or citizenship applications, or serious post-naturalisation criminal convictions.

UNITED NATIONS: Terrorist groups are increasingly exploiting artificial intelligence, encrypted platforms and digital currencies, transforming the global threat into a more decentralized and harder-to-detect phenomenon.

These trends were discussed at a panel organised by the Permanent Mission of Pakistan in collaboration with the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) at the UN headquarters in New York, where diplomats, security experts and academics examined emerging patterns in global terrorism.

According to the panelists, the shift has expanded the reach of extremist networks beyond traditional conflict zones, enabling remote recruitment, propaganda and financing through online ecosystems that operate across borders and often outside regulatory control.

The convergence of these tools with rising ideological extremism — including far-right movements in Western societies — has further complicated efforts to define and counter terrorism, as loosely organised groups operate without clear leadership or geographic limits.

Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, said the threat landscape was “fast evolving,” pointing to “xenophobia, racism and religious intolerance, as well as gaps in the global counter-terrorism architecture and sanctions regimes.”

He also highlighted challenges faced by governments in regulating social media platforms and ensuring accountability of technology companies operating across jurisdictions.

Acting Under-Secretary-General of UNOCT Alexander Zouev said terrorism had become “multipolar and sophisticated,” stressing the need for preventive action to address risks linked to artificial intelligence, encrypted services and digital assets.

Other speakers, including China’s Permanent Representative Fu Cong, UN sanctions monitoring coordinator Colin Smith and human rights expert Fionnuala Ní Aoláin, highlighted the growing misuse of information technologies, including social media, artificial intelligence tools and virtual assets, for propaganda, recruitment and financing.

Experts noted that while traditional financing methods remain dominant, terrorist groups are increasingly experimenting with cryptocurrencies and digital wallets. The use of encrypted messaging platforms and online networks for disinformation and coordination has also made detection more difficult.

Participants also drew attention to persistent threats from militant groups operating in Afghanistan and beyond, including the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its Majeed Brigade, the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), and the Islamic State – Khorasan Province (ISIL-K).
In Africa, groups such as Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) were identified as key actors driving instability in the Sahel region.

The discussion also highlighted the growing use of ungoverned spaces and fragile states as operational bases, combined with digital tools that allow global coordination without centralized command structures.
The urgency of regulating online spaces has increased since incidents such as the Christchurch mosque shootings, which demonstrated how attacks can be amplified worldwide in real time.

The meeting comes as the UN General Assembly reviews its Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, with member states under pressure to adapt policies to an increasingly complex and technology-driven threat environment.

Pakistan, currently serving on the UN Security Council for 2025–26, has identified counter-terrorism as a key priority and is advocating a comprehensive approach that combines security measures with efforts to address root causes of conflict and instability.

WASHINGTON: Pakistan on Thursday urged the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to take up the dispute over the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), warning that India’s continued unilateral suspension of the treaty carries “grave peace and security, and humanitarian consequences” for South Asia.

Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad handed over a letter from Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to the Security Council president, Ambassador Jamal Fares Alrowaiei of Bahrain.

A statement issued by Pakistan’s Mission said the letter drew the UNSC’s attention to the matter “one year after India’s illegal decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance” and highlighted the move’s “grave peace and security, and humanitarian consequences”.

The Security Council was urged “to take cognisance of the alarming situation and call upon India to restore the full implementation of IWT, resume all Treaty-mandated cooperation and data-sharing without delay, desist from any form of water coercion, and comply fully with its international obligations in good faith”.

The statement said Ambassador Ahmad also briefed the Security Council president on “the regurgitation of baseless allegations and propaganda by India at a time when Pakistan is engaged in serious mediation efforts to promote regional and international peace and security”.

He further underscored that “the unresolved Jammu and Kashmir dispute — a longstanding item on the Security Council’s agenda — was the root cause of instability in South Asia that necessitated a just and lasting settlement in accordance with relevant Security Council resolutions and wishes of the Kashmiri people”.

A treaty under strain

The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, regulates the distribution of the Indus river system between India and Pakistan. It allocates the eastern rivers — Ravi, Beas and Sutlej — to India, while the western rivers — Indus, Jhelum and Chenab — are largely allocated to Pakistan.

The agreement has long been considered one of the most durable frameworks of cooperation between the two countries, surviving wars and repeated crises. However, it has come under strain since India announced in 2025 that it was placing its treaty obligations in abeyance.

India announced a unilateral suspension of its obligations under the IWT in April last year following an attack on tourists in occupied Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 — an incident New Delhi blamed on Islamabad without evidence. For its part, Pakistan strongly denied the allegations and called for a neutral investigation.

In June 2025, the Permanent Court of Arbitration — an organisation that provides a framework for international disputes — had issued a Supplemental Award of Competence, stating that India could not unilaterally hold the treaty in abeyance.

India has maintained that it will keep the treaty in abeyance until Pakistan ends alleged support for cross-border terrorism — an accusation that Islamabad denies.

New Delhi has also argued that climate change, technological advances, and demographic pressures warrant modifications to the treaty. Pakistan, however, insists the agreement remains fully in force and binding, citing the 2025 Court of Arbitration ruling that reaffirmed its validity.

Pakistan warns of humanitarian impact

Pakistan has repeatedly warned that politicising water poses serious humanitarian and economic risks. At a UN World Water Day event in March, Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Musadik Malik said India’s decision undermined decades of cooperation and violated international law.

“For us, water is nature. Water is humanity. Water is our civilisation. For us, water is agriculture,” he said, noting that 25–30 per cent of Pakistan’s GDP and nearly half its workforce depended on agriculture linked to the Indus basin.

He said water insecurity was not only a legal issue but a humanitarian one, affecting food systems, women, and children. He added that over 61pc of women’s employment in Pakistan was tied to agriculture.

WASHINGTON: As President Donald Trump continues to shift his timeline for ending the war with Iran — from “days” to “weeks,” then “five weeks,” and now simply “soon” — Islamabad remains at the centre of fragile diplomatic expectations for a second round of US–Iran talks.

With the ceasefire under strain and tensions escalating in the Strait of Hormuz, diplomacy is unfolding in parallel with military signalling, economic volatility, and sharply diverging political narratives in Washington and Tehran.

VP Vance expected in Islamabad

Vice President JD Vance is expected to travel to Islamabad on Tuesday for the next round of talks, but the US media caution that the visit remains contingent on Iran’s confirmation of participation. Preparations are underway in Islamabad for a possible high-level diplomatic engagement, though the situation continues to shift rapidly.

Pakistan remains positioned as host and facilitator, attempting to sustain a process that is still undefined in structure and uncertain in sequencing.

Hormuz tensions

The diplomatic track is unfolding alongside renewed tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where disruptions to shipping and the seizure of an Iranian-linked vessel by US forces have intensified the confrontation.

Tehran has responded with increased maritime pressure, while Washington insists its blockade will remain in force until a broader agreement is reached.

Markets respond positively

Energy markets have reacted sharply, with oil prices briefly spiking before easing on expectations that even preliminary talks in Islamabad could still materialise.

Analysts say the absence of a stable diplomatic framework has raised questions about whether a clear endgame was defined at the outset or whether policy is being shaped reactively through public messaging.

Trust deficit

Iranian-American scholar Vali Nasr, speaking to Democracy Now, an independent US media outlet, described the current phase as one of “gradual escalation” following the collapse of early diplomatic momentum.

Nasr said early signals of de-escalation — including discussion of a Lebanon ceasefire and limited Iranian openness on maritime access — were reversed after US statements reaffirmed a strict blockade and suggested Iran had already agreed to dismantle its nuclear programme before any formal deal.

He argued that these claims triggered strong anger in Tehran, where officials rejected any suggestion of surrender and accused Washington of misrepresenting negotiations. This breakdown of trust, he said, contributed to renewed maritime confrontation in the Strait of Hormuz and reciprocal military actions at sea.

Nasr warned that growing sentiment within Tehran now questions whether attending talks in Islamabad is meaningful, with some voices arguing that Washington may be preparing for war rather than diplomacy.

Pakistan’s role appreciated

Michael Kugelman, a South Asia analyst, has argued that Pakistan’s immediate objective is likely to extend the ceasefire rather than secure a comprehensive breakthrough.

In his view, this approach buys time for more difficult substantive negotiations and reflects Islamabad’s preference for a process-driven strategy rather than an outcome-dependent gamble.

Pakistan, he suggests, is positioning itself for the long game — treating the talks not as an endpoint but as an evolving diplomatic channel amid deep mistrust between Washington and Tehran.

Washington seminar highlights Pakistan’s position

Pakistan’s diplomatic role was also discussed at a seminar at Georgetown University during the Fourth Annual Pakistan–US Conference in Washington on Monday.

Pakistan’s Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh told the participants that Islamabad’s relevance is not defined only by geography, but also by its historical and future linkages with the Middle East. He argued that Pakistan’s location makes it a potential economic and strategic bridge between China, Central Asia, and the Gulf states.

On the current US–Iran diplomacy, he said Pakistan’s facilitation role should be seen in the context of its broader diplomatic tradition. He said the confidence placed in Pakistan by multiple regional actors reflects its “sincere, humble, and responsible” engagement.

He also highlighted Pakistan’s shift in foreign policy thinking from geopolitics toward geoeconomics, and said disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz had further underlined Pakistan’s geostrategic importance for global trade routes.

US lawmakers weigh in on Iran ceasefire

Inside Washington, the ceasefire has triggered sharply contrasting political reactions. Democratic lawmakers, many of whom have criticised President Trump’s handling of the conflict, welcomed the pause in hostilities while simultaneously questioning the legality and conduct of US military actions.

Senator Ruben Gallego said on social media that “stopping war is good,” adding that he was relieved that American troops would be out of immediate danger. He also stressed that accountability questions regarding how the war began and whether it was lawful must still be addressed.

Separately, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Chris Van Hollen, among others, have pressed the Pentagon for detailed information on civilian casualties resulting from US strikes inside Iran, signalling growing congressional scrutiny of the administration’s military campaign.

WASHINGTON: Pakistan’s liquidity pressures are expected to ease as the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Executive Board is set to consider approval of a Staff-Level Agreement (SLA) next month, potentially paving the way for a fresh disbursement of about $1.2 billion under the two programmes.

The SLA was reached on March 28 on the successful third review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the second review under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and his delegation held a series of meetings with IMF and World Bank officials in Washington this week during the Spring Meetings of the Bretton Woods institutions. The talks focused on Pakistan’s macroeconomic stabilisation, reform agenda, and external financing outlook.

In a conversation with Dawn, the minister said the IMF Executive Board is expected to meet in mid-May in Washington to review the SLA, which would unlock the next tranche under Pakistan’s programme.

Liquidity pressures to ease as IMF’s board meets in mid-May

An IMF mission arrived in Islamabad on Feb 25, before the start of the Middle East conflict. However, the team left and held virtual discussions that led to the SLA before the end of March. Another IMF mission is expected in Pakistan in May for pre-budget consultations, which are a regular feature of programme engagement.

Disbursements are made in phases following periodic reviews and approval by the IMF Executive Board. The EFF is expected to run through 2027, subject to the successful completion of the remaining reviews.

Officials said Pakistan has not yet taken a formal decision on whether to seek a new IMF arrangement once the current programme concludes, and consultations in this regard are ongoing.

Engagements in Washington

The finance minister held a series of meetings with senior officials from the US, UK, Japan, multilateral development banks, and credit rating agencies.

In discussions with a senior US Treasury official, he reviewed Pakistan’s progress on macroeconomic stabilisation, external account management, and ongoing reforms aimed at improving investment climate and regulatory frameworks. Both sides also explored cooperation in energy, mineral development, and financial integrity systems.

In meetings with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Mr Aurangzeb reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to polio eradication and discussed ongoing reforms in tax administration, including digital compliance systems, AI-based monitoring tools, and expanded use of digital platforms to improve governance and service delivery. He also highlighted continued engagement on vaccine financing and coordination with development partners.

In talks with UK counterparts, he noted improvements in Pakistan’s external account position, ongoing fiscal consolidation, and policy measures to manage energy-sector pressures. He also highlighted climate-related spending, including recent flood-related relief financed through domestic resources, and the development of a more technology-driven disaster response system.

During talks with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), both sides discussed the gradual resumption of concessional lending, including early-stage infrastructure and water supply projects. Mr Aurangzeb emphasised the importance of reversing recent net negative disbursement trends and expanding cooperation in health, education, and blended financing.

In a meeting with the Asian Infrastructure Invest­ment Bank (AIIB), Pakistan highlighted its existing portfolio of about $1.7bn and a pipeline of additional projects. The minister also referred to planned Panda bond issuance and recent capital market activity as signs of improving investor sentiment, while stressing the need for stronger project execution and faster disbursement flows.

Meetings with S&P Global Ratings and Citibank focused on Pakistan’s recent IMF staff-level agreement, repayment of Eurobonds, and return to international capital markets. The Finance Minister outlined the country’s medium-term debt management strategy, including Eurobonds, sukuk instruments, and planned Panda bond issuance, and expressed optimism about improving credit outlook.

At a World Bank-hosted roundtable on digital social protection, Pakistan presented its digital public infrastructure initiatives, including the transformation of the Benazir Income Support Programme. The finance minister said digital systems had improved the efficiency of targeted subsidies and expanded financial inclusion, particularly among low-income households and women entering formal banking channels for the first time.

Officials described the overall engagements as part of Pakistan’s ongoing effort to strengthen economic stability, maintain reform momentum, and broaden engagement with international financial partners.

Published in Dawn, April 19th, 2026

WASHINGTON: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said on Friday that while he has discussed with International Monetary Fund (IMF) officials the impact of the Iran conflict on Pakistan’s economy, “our focus is on getting an early approval for the next tranche” of the IMF package and that a team of the global lender will visit Pakistan next month for consultations on the upcoming review.

Talking to Dawn after his news conference at the Pakistan Embassy, the minister reiterated that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz was “a very good development”, which would ease pressure on global oil supplies, bring down oil prices everywhere and benefit Pakistan as well.

Had the conflict persisted, it would have adversely affected everything “from economic growth to inflation”, he said, adding: “We hope the situation will improve, but hope is not a strategy, and that’s why we had planned for everything.”

Aurangzeb said he also discussed the possible consequences of the Iran crisis with the IMF, which has established facilities to support countries affected by global economic shocks, but emphasised that “our focus is on the next tranche and on getting an early approval of the IMF board”.

Cites global relief from reopening of Hormuz

Speaking at his news conference at the Pakistan embassy, the finance minister also briefed Pakistani media representatives on the country’s broader economic outlook, progress on reforms, and outcomes of his engagements during the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings 2026, which were also attended by the State Bank governor and Pakistan’s ambassador to the United States.

The minister said his meetings with global stakeholders, including counterparts from China, the US, the UK and other partners, focused increasingly on expanding cooperation in trade, investment and key sectors such as information technology, minerals and energy.

On the external sector, he highlighted what he described as strong performance indicators, including a current account surplus of over $1 billion in March, remittance inflows of $3.8bn during the same month, and record inflows of $261 million under the Roshan Digital Account, with expectations of further growth.

He also said the Pakistani diaspora was playing an increasingly important role in supporting external sector stability through formal financial channels.

On financial sector reforms, Aurangzeb said efforts were under way to strengthen regulatory oversight and formalise exchange company operations through coordinated action between the finance ministry, the State Bank of Pakistan and law enforcement agencies.

He said preparations for the upcoming budget were continuing through consultations with chambers of commerce and business councils, adding that tax policy formulation was being led by the finance ministry with a focus on broadening the tax base and incorporating stakeholder feedback before final approval by the cabinet and parliament.

The minister said improving the ease of doing business remained a priority, particularly by reducing administrative bottlenecks and outdated regulatory procedures.

He stressed the importance of policy continuity, including in initiatives such as the Roshan Digital Account, saying predictable policies were essential for attracting both domestic and foreign investment.

On energy and climate policy, he highlighted the need to shift towards renewable energy while addressing structural issues in the power sector, and said Pakistan’s experience with recent climate shocks had underscored the importance of stronger fiscal buffers and preparedness.

Aurangzeb also said responsible borrowing remained central to government policy, adding that international financial platforms should be used for knowledge-sharing and peer learning rather than debt relief advocacy, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to meeting all financial obligations on time.

He further noted increased transshipment activity through Pakistani ports and improvements in logistics management as emerging positive signs for economic activity.

Concluding his briefing, the finance minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to macroeconomic stability, structural reforms and a disciplined policy framework aimed at supporting long-term, inclusive growth.

Published in Dawn, April 18th, 2026

• Trump expects deal to be finalised ‘in a day or two’
• Calls PM, army chief ‘fantastic people’
• Asserts Lebanon conflict separate from Hormuz deal; Iran insists Hormuz opening linked to Lebanon ceasefire
• Dar says Islamabad wants ‘permanent’ end to war, urges both sides to show flexibility
• US-Iran draft deal may include $20bn for uranium rollback

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump appreciated Iran and praised Pakistan on Friday, declaring that the Strait of Hormuz was “fully open and ready for full passage” but a US naval blockade on Iran would remain in place until an agreement was finalised, soon after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced the Strait was open for “all commercial vessels” till the time the Lebanon ceasefire was in place.

The US and Iranian negotiators are expected to meet over the weekend and are closing in on a three-page framework to end the conflict, a report by Axios said, as Trump expressed optimism that a deal could be reached “in the next day or two”.

The dual framing by Trump, however, appears aimed at presenting a rapid de-escalation in one of the world’s most sensitive shipping lanes while simultaneously projecting leverage over Tehran, with the mention on ‘naval blockade’, during the next round of negotiations.

“The Strait of Hormuz is completely open and ready for business and full passage, but the naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran, only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.

“This process should go very quickly in that most of the points are already negotiated.”

Trump praised regional partners and claimed a breakthrough in maritime tensions. He thanked Pakistan and its leadership, writing: “Thank you to Pakistan and its great prime minister and field marshal, two fantastic people!” In another post, he declared, “A great and brilliant day for the world!”

“Iran has agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again. It will no longer be used as a weapon against the world!” he said. Interestingly, he claimed, “Iran, with the help of the US, has removed, or is removing, all sea mines.”

Iran’s Foreign Minister Araghchi had earlier declared, “In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire.” Military vessels are still banned from the waterway, a senior Iranian military official told state media.

A spokesperson for Iran’s president, Seyyed Mohammad Mehdi Tabatabaei, lashed out at the “baseless statements of the enemy”, shortly afterwards, Al Jazeera reports. He said, “The conditional and limited reopening of a portion of the Strait of Hormuz is solely an Iranian initiative, one that creates responsibility and serves to test the firm commitments of the opposing side. If they renege on their promises, they will face dire consequences.”

However, while insisting that the maritime arrangement was separate from other regional conflicts, Trump stated, “Again! This deal is not tied, in any way, to Lebanon, but we will make Lebanon great again!”

While calling on Washington and Tehran to “show flexibility”, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Pakistan wants a “permanent termination” of the US-Israeli war on Iran. Islamabad’s “objective is not ceasefire extension. Our main objective is the permanent termination of war,” and an agreement between the parties, Dar said, according to Anadolu Agency. “More than 80pc of the work has been done. And a couple of things are (remaining)… both parties have to show flexibility,” he added.

Earlier, Trump said, “Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer. They are prohibited from doing so by the USA. Enough is enough!”

Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said his country was on the verge of a “new phase” of “permanent agreements”, after the ceasefire went into force. “Now, we all stand before a new phase,” Aoun has said in his first speech to the nation since the truce, adding, “it is the phase of transition from working on a ceasefire to working on permanent agreements that preserve the rights of our people, the unity of our land, and the sovereignty of our nation.”

Frozen assets, uranium

On the other hand, Trump said the US would retain uranium and related materials from its military operations: “The USA will get all nuclear ‘dust’, created by our great B2 bombers — no money will exchange hands in any way, shape or form. This deal is in no way subject to Lebanon, either.”

According to Axios, the United States and Iran are working towards a three-page draft framework aimed at ending the conflict, with negotiations said to have made significant progress in recent days.

One proposal under discussion involves the release of up to $20 billion in frozen Iranian assets in exchange for Tehran surrendering its stockpile of enriched uranium and agreeing to a moratorium on enrichment activities.

While Trump has expressed confidence that an agreement could be finalised soon, Axios reported that multiple US officials and other sources briefed on the negotiations said that “gaps still remain on critical issues”.

President Trump had earlier indicated both sides were likely to meet this weekend for a second round of talks aimed at finalising an agreement. The discussions are expected to take place in Islamabad, possibly on Sunday, according to a source familiar with the mediation effort. Pakistan is mediating the process, with behind-the-scenes support from Egypt and Turkiye.

A key priority for the Trump administration remains ensuring that Iran does not retain access to its stockpile of nearly 2,000kg of enriched uranium stored in underground facilities, including about 450kg enriched to 60 per cent purity.

Following the Axios report, Trump wrote on Truth Social that “no money will change hands”, although he did not directly address the reported proposal involving unfreezing Iranian funds.

Separately, sources said, the US had considered releasing around $6bn to allow Iran to purchase food, medicine and other humanitarian supplies, while Iranian negotiators had reportedly sought as much as $27bn in earlier stages of the negotiations. The latest figure under discussion between the two sides is about $20bn, according to the same sources. One US official described the cash-for-uranium idea as “one of many discussions” still on the table.

‘Step in right direction’

Later, UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed Iran’s announcements that the Strait of Hormuz is completely open for all commercial vessels for the remainder of the ceasefire.

“This is a step in the right direction,” he wrote in a social media post.

He said the UN position on this issue remains clear: “We need the full restoration of inter­national navigational rig­hts and freedoms in the Strait of Hormuz, respected by everyone.”

The UN chief hoped that this measure, together with the ceasefire, would contribute to creating confidence between the parties and strengthen the ongoing dialogue facilitated by Pakistan.

Diplomatic efforts reportedly involve multiple regional actors, including Gulf states and Pakistan, alongside indirect US-Iran negotiations aimed at stabilising maritime security and regional tensions.

Additional input from agencies

Published in Dawn, April 18th, 2026

• Claims Iran has accepted ‘almost everything’ in talks
• Nuclear issue remains key sticking point; US presses for complete dismantlement
• Pakistan-led diplomacy, CDF’s Tehran visit gain global attention
• FO says Pakistan maintaining ‘open channels’ with both sides
• Massive security deployment planned in Islamabad, Rawalpindi

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said on Thursday he may travel to Islamabad if a final agreement with Iran is signed there, while claiming that Tehran has accepted “almost everything” currently under negotiation.

Speaking to reporters on the White House lawn before departing for Nevada and Arizona, Trump expressed optimism about Pakistan-led diplomatic efforts to end hostilities and secure a settlement before the current ceasefire expires.

“If a deal is signed in Islamabad, I may go,” he said. “They want me.”

He also indicated that the US-Iran ceasefire, set to expire next week, could be extended, although he suggested such a move might not be necessary if a deal is reached in time.

Trump reiterated an unverified claim that Iran had agreed to surrender enriched uranium allegedly relocated and concealed after last year’s US-Israeli air strikes. The Iranian nuclear progra­mme remains the central sticking point in the negotiations, and Washing­ton continues to press for its complete dismantlement.

The US president has consistently advocated for a comprehensive deal under which Tehran would abandon its nuclear capabilities in return for sanctions relief and de-escalation.

His remarks came amid intensified diplomatic activity involving regional and international stakeholders, as efforts gathered pace to secure both an immediate ceasefire and a longer-term political settlement.

Trump, who has repeatedly praised Pakistan and its leaders as “extraordinary, kind and very competent”, has once again shown his ability to swing the global conversation with a single statement.

The 47th day of the US-Iran war began on Thursday with a glimmer of optimism. Major American media outlets, from the New York Times to online platforms, portrayed Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir’s visit to Tehran as a possible peace mission — one that could help end the devastating conflict between Wash­ington and Tehran.

A diplomatic observer told Dawn in Washington that “all sides are hoping to finalise at least an initial agreement before the ceasefire expires”.

Pakistan’s diplomatic push aims to turn the temporary truce into a lasting peace, with reports indicating a second round of negotiations could be hosted in Islamabad soon.

Earlier, Pakistan — which is mediating bet­ween Iran and the United States — said it expected to host a second round of peace negotiations bet­ween the two sides.

Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said on Thursday that a second round of talks between the United States and Iran was expected to take place in Islamabad but declined to provide a date.

Speaking to reporters at a weekly news briefing, Andrabi said that Pakistan was maintaining “open channels of communication with the concerned parties”.

Meanwhile, authorities have stepped up security preparations in Islamabad and Rawalpindi ahead of a possible second round of talks, with officials reviewing and retaining the plan used during the first round.

Around 6,000 Islamabad police personnel, supported by Frontier Constabulary, Rangers and the army, will be deployed across the capital, particularly in and around the Red Zone.

In Rawalpindi, over 5,000 personnel will be on duty, with strict monitoring of entry and exit points, heightened surveillance and temporary restrictions on movement to ensure the security of visiting delegations.

‘Maximally postured’

While diplomatic momentum appeared to build, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a cautionary note, warning that Washington was prepared to resume military operations if negotiations failed.

“We urge the new Iranian regime to choose wisely,” Hegseth said, adding that the US military was “maximally postured” to restart combat operations if Tehran refused to agree to a deal.

Amid these mixed signals, Trump announced a separate diplomatic breakthrough, stating that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to a 10-day ceasefire following talks in Washington.

According to Trump, the truce would begin at 5pm Eastern Time, following discussions involving Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netan­yahu and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The Lebanon ceasefire is seen as a key precondition for Iran’s continued engagement in talks with the United States, with Tehran insisting that any agreement must include a halt to hostilities across all fronts.

Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue has been widely acknowledged.

“Pakistanis have been incredible mediators,” Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said after the army chief’s arrival in Iran. “The president feels it’s important to continue to streamline this communication through the Pakistanis.”

International media have also highlighted Islamabad’s growing diplomatic role. The New York Times noted that “Pakistani diplomacy has risen to the forefront of efforts to broker peace between the United States and Iran, as the top leaders of Pakistan tried to preserve a shaky cease-fire between the combatants and to again offer their country as the venue for potential talks.”

It noted that Field Marshal Asim Munir was “the first regional player to visit Iran since the United States and Israel began attacking it”.

Field Marshal Munir also met Iranian Parliam­ent Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf in Tehran. Pakistan helped negotiate a two-week ceasefire last week, scoring a major diplomatic victory. That ceasefire is to expire on April 21.

Munawer Azeem in Islamabad and Mohammad Asghar in Rawalpindi also contributed to this report

Published in Dawn, April 17th, 2026