Trump Says Iran Talks on the Brink as Pakistan’s Military Chief Heads to Tehran

The United States, Pakistan and Iran are converging on a fragile diplomatic crossroads. President Donald Trump told reporters at Joint Base Andrews that without “the right answers” from Tehran, the situation could “go very quickly” and the U.S. is ready to act. His remarks came a day before Field Marshal Asim Munir, Pakistan’s chief of army staff, departs for Tehran for “talks and consultations” with Iranian officials.

Pakistan has become the most active mediator since the war began on Feb. 28. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi arrived in Iran for a second visit this week, and Munir’s upcoming trip follows Pakistan’s April hosting of the only direct U.S.–Iran talks to date. Iran’s foreign ministry said it has received the latest U.S. response and is reviewing it, while Tehran’s foreign minister affirmed readiness for both negotiation and combat, depending on “the interests of the system.”

The backdrop to these talks is a U.S. naval blockade launched in mid‑April. At least five vessels have been boarded under the operation, and a recent incident saw a ship searched and redirected after suspicion of heading to an Iranian port. The blockade aims to pressure Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and accept U.S. terms.

Iran has submitted a revised 14‑point proposal that expands demands to include control of the Hormuz Strait, reparations, sanctions relief, release of frozen assets and withdrawal of U.S. forces. Analysts note the shift places leverage on Tehran, forcing Washington to refocus on nuclear issues while the missile‑program and regional proxy concerns recede.

What it means: The window for a diplomatic settlement is narrowing. Trump’s warning signals a low tolerance for further delays, while Pakistan’s high‑level engagement could either bridge gaps or cement Iran’s bargaining position. The next 48‑hour period will test whether Tehran’s revised proposal satisfies U.S. demands or triggers a renewed military response.