High-level defence and intelligence officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan convened in Tehran on Monday to discuss de-escalation strategies regarding the ongoing military crisis involving Iran and the United States. The meetings included Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and National Security Chief Mohsen Rezaei, marking a significant diplomatic effort to prevent further conflict.
Last Week
Pakistani Army Chief Marshal Asim Munir visited Tehran, where he proposed the multi-nation meeting. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that this proposal laid the groundwork for the discussions held this week, potentially serving as an initial step toward establishing regional security mechanisms.
Monday
Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, Turkish Intelligence Chief Ibrahim Kalin, and Pakistani Army Chief Marshal Asim Munir met with Iranian leadership. According to the Saudi Foreign Ministry, the visit aligns with the Kingdom’s efforts to establish regional peace and open negotiation channels. A senior Pakistani security official stated the primary objective was to build a regional non-aggression network. The talks addressed Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, the Strait of Hormuz, and the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports. Iranian officials confirmed that the country’s nuclear program was excluded from the agenda, pending the resolution of war-related demands, including the lifting of sanctions and the blockade.
Current Status
The diplomatic push follows recent regional instability, including attacks on Saudi targets by Yemen’s Houthi rebels and the expansion of the conflict initiated by U.S. and Israeli strikes in February. Participants are seeking to leverage the Makkah Pact—a mutual defense agreement signed in August—to encourage diplomatic solutions. Officials aim to mediate between Washington and Tehran, as fears persist regarding a potential U.S.-Israeli offensive following upcoming midterm elections.