Pakistani officials are expressing cautious optimism over the prospects of renewed US-Iran engagement, as diplomatic activity intensifies in Islamabad following the arrival of Iran’s foreign minister and the expected visit of a US delegation.

According to sources, mediators in Pakistan remain “cautiously optimistic” that talks between Tehran and Washington could resume, despite lingering uncertainty.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in the Pakistani capital on Friday night as part of a regional tour, amid efforts by Islamabad to revive stalled negotiations.

Pakistani leaders, including the prime minister and senior officials, are expected to hold meetings with the Iranian delegation focused on Tehran’s position regarding the ongoing dispute.

At the same time, the White House has announced that US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are scheduled to arrive in Islamabad for talks with the Iranian officials.

However, Iran has downplayed expectations of direct engagement.

A spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry said no formal meeting is planned between Iranian and US officials, adding that Tehran’s “observations” would instead be communicated through Pakistani intermediaries.

Diplomatic sources indicate that Pakistan has played a sustained behind-the-scenes role in attempting to bridge the gap between the two sides.

Even after talks stalled nearly two weeks ago, Pakistani officials have remained in continuous contact with both Tehran and Washington, seeking to bring them back to the negotiating table.

Analysts say the current flurry of visits reflects Islamabad’s effort to restore momentum to a faltering process.

While immediate breakthroughs appear unlikely, the parallel presence of Iranian and US representatives in the Pakistani capital is being viewed as a potential opening for indirect engagement.

The sources said discussions between Pakistan and Iran are expected to focus on bilateral consultations and Tehran’s assessment of the situation.

Mediators are also working to create conditions conducive to a possible resumption of talks between the United States and Iran.