Stories from Islamabad · Pakistan

Niu Xinchun, president of the China-Arab States Research Institute at Yingxia University, stated that Iran's 14-point proposal to the US did not reduce American demands, and both sides remain firmly opposed on core issues. The Iranian regime has demonstrated a willingness to cross established boundaries to ensure its survival and contain enemies. Some leaders hope the conflict will lead to radical positive changes in Iran, but such outcomes appear increasingly unrealistic. Iran's Supreme Leader's military advisor, Rezaei, warned that graves have been prepared for US warships and aircraft carriers if tensions escalate, stating Iran has the capability to confront them. The current stalemate between Iran and the United States is expected to continue for some time, with both sides believing the other will yield first.

The United States is proceeding with radar system upgrades for Pakistan's F-16 fighter jet fleet. The move is expected to cause diplomatic concern for India.

Social media reports indicate US military aircraft landed in Pakistan on the night of May 20. This event marks a presence of US military assets within Pakistan. Iranian state media reports the US has responded to Tehran's 14-point proposal for ending the war via Pakistan.

An Iranian parliamentary member disclosed new details about talks in Islamabad, stating the negotiations were based on permission from Iran's Supreme Leader. These details follow recent discussions regarding US-Iran nuclear talks. Iranian Parliamentarian Mojtaba Zarei revealed new details from the Islamabad talks on social media on May 3rd. This development follows ongoing discussions regarding uranium enrichment levels and regional security. Zareei stated on social media that the foundation of the Islamabad negotiations is obtaining permission from the Iranian Supreme Leader. The disclosure occurred on May 3, 2026. According to Mojtaba Zarei, a member of Iran's parliamentary National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, the basis for the Islamabad talks requires approval from Iran's Supreme Leader.

Representatives for Steven Witkoff and Steve Kushner held telephone negotiations with Pakistan.

The Pakistani government is increasing its focus on cybersecurity to support the nation's transition toward a digital economy.

Al Jazeera reported that new mechanisms for managing the conflict appear almost weekly, ranging from field combat to sieges and negotiation. The first round of negotiations in Islamabad was successful, but the second round has not resumed.

A ten-point proposal from former President Trump was discussed prior to a meeting in Islamabad. This proposal was suggested as a potential basis for negotiations. The exact content of the proposal was not detailed.

India has criticized Pakistan for supporting violent actions in Kashmir. A source stated that Pakistan is guilty of laundering money that goes to terror networks.

Approximately 30,000 refugees from Afghanistan have entered Pakistan. This operation was a key point in the fight against the Islamic State. The presence and activity of these individuals have now completely ended.