Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi Visits Tehran to Boost Bilateral Ties

Updated: 3:10 AM PKT — May 19, 2026

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a series of high-level meetings in Tehran, including with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and his counterpart Abbas Araghchi, to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and de-escalating regional tensions. According to diplomatic sources, the visit comes at a critical time amid speculation of potential new attacks on Iran by the United States, underscoring the urgency of Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement.

In a 90-minute meeting at the Presidential Palace, President Pezeshkian acknowledged Pakistan’s crucial role in promoting regional stability. The talks centered on diplomatic pathways to a permanent ceasefire, with Iran, the United States, and Gulf countries reportedly viewing Pakistan as a credible mediator. Pezeshkian also thanked the governments of Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan for ensuring their territories were not used for attacks against his country.

Naqvi also met with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, to discuss the rapidly changing security situation in the region, according to Iranian media reports. This engagement was part of a broader effort to foster dialogue and find sustainable peace.

In a separate meeting, Iranian Parliament Speaker Baqer Qalibaf praised Pakistan for its support and cooperation during the recent conflict and called for increased collaboration in economic, cultural, and other sectors. Qalibaf asserted that the US military presence is a “cause of a lack of security” in the region, urging regional nations to establish their own security cooperation through mutual trust.

In response, Minister Naqvi affirmed that Islamabad is a witness to Tehran’s diplomatic efforts and its moves to protect its interests. He conveyed that the people of Pakistan pray for the success of the Iranian government and its people, highlighting the growing closeness between the populations of the two neighbouring countries.

Updated: 1:59 AM PKT — May 19, 2026

During his visit, the interior minister also held discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The diplomatic engagement comes amid heightened threats of military action against Tehran by the United States.

Updated: 12:05 AM PKT — May 19, 2026

The federal interior minister’s diplomatic visit entered its third consecutive day with a meeting between Mohsin Naqvi and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The officials discussed the ongoing negotiations with the US, during which Araghchi lauded Pakistan’s sincere efforts in facilitating the diplomatic process.

Updated: 11:12 PM PKT — May 18, 2026

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has met with Pakistani ambassadors from the region to bolster economic and strategic ties as part of a diplomatic push focused on Iran and Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s visit to Tehran has been extended to three days, where his agenda includes talks with his Iranian counterpart.

Updated: 7:33 PM PKT — May 18, 2026

Iran has conveyed its response to US proposals through Pakistani mediation, centered on a new 14-point plan aimed at ending the conflict. The diplomatic effort comes as US President Trump warned that time is running out, with the Pentagon reportedly identifying energy and infrastructure targets for a limited strike. In response, a military advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader warned that if the blockade is not lifted, the Gulf of Oman will become a ‘graveyard’ for US forces.

Updated: 5:55 PM PKT — May 18, 2026

As part of the ongoing mediation, a revised Iranian proposal for an agreement has been conveyed to Washington via Pakistani channels. This comes on the third day of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s meetings in Tehran, even as US President Donald Trump warned that time is running out for a deal, a threat met with defiance from Iranian officials.

Updated: 9:43 AM PKT — May 18, 2026

Amid the escalating rhetoric, a US official has confirmed that a planned military action, ‘Project Fidem,’ was paused at Pakistan’s request to give diplomacy a chance. US President Donald Trump warned Iran that time is running out, while Tehran vowed any new US aggression would have devastating consequences. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed hope that a second round of direct talks could be held in Islamabad.

Updated: 9:13 AM PKT — May 18, 2026

The diplomatic efforts come as US President Donald Trump warned Iran that “time is running out,” with his administration setting five conditions for talks including the handover of 400kg of enriched uranium. American officials confirmed a planned covert action, ‘Project Fidayeen’, was halted at Pakistan’s request, while Iran has warned it will deliver a more devastating response if attacked.

Updated: 7:34 AM PKT — May 18, 2026

The Interior Minister’s diplomatic outreach in Tehran also included a meeting with the Iranian Foreign Minister. In his discussions, President Pezeshkian specifically expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s commitment to not allowing its territory to be used for attacks on Iran.

Updated: 6:42 AM PKT — May 18, 2026

The interior minister also held a separate meeting with Iran’s Foreign Minister during his visit. In his meeting with President Masoud Pezeshkian, the Iranian leader specifically thanked Pakistan for not allowing its territory to be used against Iran.

Updated: 4:43 AM PKT — May 18, 2026

The diplomatic push comes as the US President warned Iran that time is running out for a new deal, while Iranian military officials have vowed a ‘devastating’ response to any potential aggression. US officials, including a CENTCOM commander and a Congressman, acknowledged the diplomatic efforts were pursued at Pakistan’s request, praising the country’s key role as a reliable partner.

Updated: 3:50 AM PKT — May 18, 2026

During their discussion, President Pezeshkian emphasized that unity among Islamic countries can effectively limit foreign interference. He specifically expressed gratitude to Pakistan for its commitment to not allowing its territory to be used for any attacks against Iran.

Updated: 11:00 PM PKT — May 17, 2026

During the discussions, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian thanked the governments of Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan for not allowing their territory to be used for attacks against his country. The leaders also discussed efforts to ensure sustainable peace, according to sources familiar with the meeting. This update also clarifies that Mohsin Naqvi attended in his capacity as Foreign Minister.

Updated: 9:56 PM PKT — May 17, 2026

Discussions reportedly centered on diplomatic efforts for a permanent ceasefire involving Iran and the US. Additionally, Pakistan is said to be viewed as a credible mediator by Iran, the US, and Gulf countries in the bid to de-escalate regional tensions.

Updated: 9:02 PM PKT — May 17, 2026

The interior minister’s diplomatic engagements included a meeting with Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. It was also clarified that the 90-minute discussion with President Pezeshkian was held as a one-on-one session.

Updated: 8:20 PM PKT — May 17, 2026

The meeting at the presidential palace lasted for several hours, longer than initially reported. During the extended talks, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed specific gratitude to Pakistan for not allowing its territory to be used for attacks against Iran.

Updated: 7:43 PM PKT — May 17, 2026

During his visit, the interior minister also held meetings with Iran’s Foreign Minister and the Speaker of Parliament. The diplomatic engagement occurs as an Iranian military spokesman, General Shekarchi, warned of severe consequences for any new US aggression, amid reports that Washington has placed new conditions on Tehran, including the handover of enriched uranium.