United States Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Friday described the ongoing conflict with Iran as “a gift to the world.” His remarks came ahead of the second round of potential US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high. Amid uncertainty, diplomatic activity is picking up in Pakistan as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir on Saturday.

Hegseth Calls Iran Conflict 'A Gift To The World'

Addressing reporters at the Pentagon, Hegseth stated that the naval restrictions are essential to fulfilling what he described as a “bold and dangerous” mission aimed at neutralising Iran's perceived threat to international stability. He declared that the US naval blockade on Iranian maritime traffic will continue “as long as it takes.” Hegseth further claimed the operation has delivered a “decisive military result.”

A day earlier, Hegseth had said that Iran still has a chance to make a “good and wise deal” and added that the US is not in a hurry, saying it has “all the time in the world.” He said, “Iran knows that they still have an open window to choose wisely at the negotiating table. All they have to do is abandon a nuclear weapon in meaningful and verifiable ways.”

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US-Iran Peace Talks Loom In Islamabad

Meanwhile, high-level discussions are underway in Islamabad between Pakistan and Iranian officials. US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are also expected to arrive in the country for possible engagement related to Iran talks. However, Tehran has made its position clear, stating that it will not hold direct talks with the US at this stage, despite growing international calls.

Spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Esmaeil Baqaei also clarified that no meeting is planned to take place between Tehran and Washington. However, he stated that Iran's observations would be conveyed to Pakistan.

In a post on X, he wrote, “We arrive in Islamabad, Pakistan, for an official visit. FM Araghchi will be meeting with Pakistani high-level officials in concert with their ongoing mediation & good offices for ending American imposed war of aggression and the restitution of peace in our region. No meeting is planned to take place between Iran and the U.S. Iran's observations would be conveyed to Pakistan.”

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