Calls grow for more peace diplomacy

ISLAMABAD:

International calls for diplomacy intensified on Sunday after high-stakes United States–Iran talks in Islamabad ended without agreement.

A European Union spokesperson stressed that diplomacy remains "essential" to resolving the war, while welcoming Pakistan's role in hosting the talks. EU foreign affairs spokesman Anouar El Anouni said Brussels "salutes Pakistan for its mediation efforts" and would coordinate with partners to support further attempts at a negotiated settlement.

Elsewhere, Oman's Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi called for extending the ceasefire and continuing dialogue, warning that "success may require everyone to make painful concessions" but would still be preferable to the "pain of failure and war".

Australia echoed similar concerns, with Foreign Minister Penny Wong urging all sides to prioritise maintaining the ceasefire and returning to negotiations after the Islamabad talks ended without a breakthrough.

Public reaction in Tehran reflected a mix of disappointment and defiance. Residents voiced support for diplomacy but remained wary of concessions. Some blamed the United States for imposing "inappropriate demands", while others said preserving strategic gains from the conflict was more important than reaching a quick agreement.

The war, which began on February 28, has already caused significant casualties, with thousands reported dead across Iran, Lebanon, Israel and Gulf Arab states, alongside widespread infrastructure damage.

Economic consequences have also been severe. Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted global oil and gas flows, driving up energy prices and heightening international concern over prolonged instability.

As global actors push for renewed dialogue, the end of the Islamabad talks without agreement underscores the hurdle to reaching consensus, with diplomacy now seen as the only viable path to prevent further escalation in an already volatile region.

(WITH INPUT FROM AGENCIES)