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Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Pakistan on Monday in a diplomatic effort to mediate between Islamabad and New Delhi following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that has sharply raised tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, Araghchi is the first foreign dignitary to visit the country since the April 22 assault in Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists, mostly Hindus.
His visit follows Tehran’s recent offer to help deescalate the crisis. Upon arrival near Islamabad, Araghchi was received by senior Pakistani officials. During his trip, he is scheduled to meet with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, President Asif Ali Zardari, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. No further details were provided.
Pakistan’s military remains on high alert after Minister Attaullah Tarar warned last week of “credible intelligence” suggesting a possible Indian retaliatory strike. Pakistan has denied any involvement in the Kashmir attack and has proposed an impartial international investigation — an offer India has yet to respond to.
Global leaders, including U.S. officials, have urged both countries to act with restraint to prevent further escalation.
Kashmir remains a deeply contentious issue, with both India and Pakistan claiming the region in full. The two nations have fought two wars over the Himalayan territory, and their relationship continues to be defined by hostility, mistrust, and disputes over Kashmir.
The recent surge in hostilities has already led to tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions and the closure of airspace between the two sides.