Islamabad, Apr 25 (V7N): Iran’s Parliament Speaker and head of the country’s negotiating team with the United States, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has reportedly resigned following internal disagreements over the scope of ongoing discussions with Washington.
According to a report by Iran International on Friday, Ghalibaf faced strong criticism for attempting to include Iran’s nuclear program in negotiations with the United States, a move that reportedly led to pressure forcing his resignation. Discussions are underway regarding his replacement, with hardline figure Saeed Jalili emerging as a leading candidate. At the same time, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is said to be interested in taking direct charge of the negotiations.
Meanwhile, diplomatic engagement between the United States and Iran has shown notable progress in Islamabad. According to Reuters, Araghchi arrived in Pakistan as part of ongoing efforts to advance dialogue between the two sides.
A Pakistani government source indicated that there is strong potential for “significant progress” in the talks being held in the capital, Islamabad.
Earlier on Friday, Araghchi held a telephone conversation with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Both sides confirmed the discussion, which focused on regional developments, ceasefire efforts, and the broader diplomatic initiatives surrounding US-Iran engagement.
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry stated that Dar emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue, while Araghchi appreciated Pakistan’s consistent and constructive role in facilitating diplomatic efforts.
Earlier this week, at least nine US aircraft arrived in Islamabad, carrying communication equipment, vehicles, security personnel, and technical staff, signaling heightened logistical and diplomatic activity linked to the ongoing negotiations.
END/WD/AJ/
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