Islamabad: Former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Ambassador Sardar Masood Khan says Pakistan remains actively engaged in steering the United States and Iran towards a negotiated settlement, even as both sides adopt increasingly hardened positions.

According to Radio Pakistan, commenting on the evolving situation, Masood Khan described the current phase as a coercive contest where diplomatic engagement is unfolding alongside intense military and economic pressure.

Ambassador Masood Khan emphasized that key sticking points continue to hinder progress, including Iran's nuclear programme, sanctions relief, the future of the Strait of Hormuz, and the status of regional allies. He noted that the United States has adopted a maximalist stance, seeking far-reaching commitments, while Iran views many of these demands as excessive and incompatible with its sovereign rights.

Highlighting Pakistan's role, he stated that Islamabad has completed all necessary preparations to host the next round of talks and continues to maintain close contact with both sides, as well as key regional stakeholders.