Inquilab News

Israel has temporarily removed Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf from its hit list following a request by Pakistan, a Pakistani source familiar with the discussions told Reuters on Thursday (March 26, 2026).

According to the source, Israeli authorities had identified the locations of both officials and were preparing to target them. However, Pakistan urged Washington to intervene, warning that eliminating the two leaders would eliminate any remaining possibility of diplomatic engagement. The U.S. subsequently asked Israel to stand down, the source added.

Pakistan’s military and foreign office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The Wall Street Journal earlier reported that the two Iranian officials had been temporarily removed from Israel’s list of targets for four to five days as part of efforts to explore potential peace talks. The report, citing U.S. officials, did not mention any role played by Pakistan.

Pakistan, along with Egypt and Turkey, is actively mediating between Tehran and Washington in an effort to bring an end to the conflict. Islamabad has maintained direct communication with both sides at a time when diplomatic channels remain largely frozen, and is being considered a potential venue for future negotiations.

Iran is currently reviewing a 15-point proposal from U.S. President Donald Trump, reportedly conveyed through Pakistan, aimed at ending the war. According to Israeli cabinet sources, the proposal includes provisions for dismantling Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, halting enrichment activities, restricting its ballistic missile programme, and ending financial support to regional allies.

While President Trump has said that Iran is eager to reach an agreement, Mr. Araghchi has stated that Tehran is reviewing the proposal but has no intention of entering negotiations to end the conflict at this stage.