Iran, U.S. and Pakistan report progress in talks to end conflict

Chief of Defence Forces of Pakistan, Field Marshal Asim Munir is welcomed by Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, upon his arrival, as a part of the ongoing mediation efforts between the U.S. and Iran, in Tehran, Iran, May 22, 2026. Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR)/Handout via REUTERS

RIYADH, May 23 — Iran, the United States and mediator Pakistan indicated on Saturday that diplomatic efforts to end nearly three months of war were advancing, with officials pointing to a narrowing of disputes and intensified negotiations in recent days.

Iran’s foreign ministry said discussions in Tehran between senior Iranian officials and Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir centred on completing a memorandum of understanding aimed at easing tensions and moving talks toward a broader settlement.

Munir also met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian during the visit, while Pakistan’s military said negotiations held over the last 24 hours had produced “encouraging” movement toward a final understanding.

Washington also signalled possible developments ahead. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said ongoing contacts had generated progress and suggested announcements could follow soon.

“There’s been some progress done, some progress made, even as I speak to you now, there’s some work being done,” Rubio told reporters.

“There is a chance that, whether it’s later today, tomorrow, in a couple days, we may have something to say,” he added.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said mediation efforts had helped reduce tensions, although unresolved issues remained under discussion.

“The trend this week has been towards a reduction in disputes, but there are still issues that need to be discussed through mediators,” Baghaei said.

“We will have to wait and see where the situation ends in the next three or four days,” he added.