Israel has dropped Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf from its target list after Pakistan asked Washington to persuade Israel not to attack them, Reuters quoted a Pakistani source on Thursday.
“The Israelis had their coordinates and wanted to take them out, we told the US if they are also eliminated then there is no one else to talk to; hence, the US asked the Israelis to back off,” the source said according to the report.
Observers say that this incident shows Islamabad’s growing role in quiet diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions.
A Pakistani source familiar with the matter said Israel had been planning to target Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Reuters reported.
According to the source, Pakistan asked the United States to intervene and stop the move. Further, it was warned that killing senior leaders would eliminate any chance of negotiations in the future.
“The Israelis had their coordinates and wanted to take them out… if they are eliminated, there is no one left to talk to,” the source said. It further added that Washington later urged Israel to hold back.
No official confirmation yet
Pakistan’s military and foreign office have not issued any official statement regarding the claims yet.
Earlier, The Wall Street Journal reported that the two Iranian officials had been taken off Israel’s hit list for a temporary period of four to five days, citing US officials. That report did not refer to any role played by Pakistan.
Pakistan is one of several countries attempting to mediate between Tehran and Washington, along with Egypt and Turkey.
Islamabad has maintained rare direct communication with both sides at a time when most other diplomatic channels remain largely frozen. It is also being considered as a possible location for future peace talks.
Iran reviews US proposal
Iran is currently examining a 15 point proposal presented by Donald Trump and conveyed through Pakistan.
Israeli sources familiar with the proposal said it includes:
- Removal of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpiles
- Halting nuclear enrichment
- Limits on ballistic missile development
- Ending support for regional allies
While Trump has repeatedly claimed that Iran is ready to strike a deal, Tehran continues to deny that any formal negotiations are underway.
Araghchi has confirmed that Iran is reviewing the proposal but stressed there is “no intention of holding talks” to end the conflict at this stage.
