At the same time, Pakistan has reemerged as an important intermediary, highlighting the delicate nature of the discussions. The expected visit of Pakistan’s army chief to Tehran is seen as a sign of both urgency and uncertainty, as diplomatic efforts continue behind closed doors and multiple sides search for common ground.
One of the key issues remains Iran’s proposed tolling regime in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway critical to global energy supplies. Rubio has opposed the proposal, warning that changes affecting the route could disrupt international markets and increase instability across the region. Concerns remain that even limited shifts in control could have far-reaching economic and political consequences.