Diplomatic Messaging Continues via Pakistan as Iran Sets Nuclear Red Lines

Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the U.S.-Iran conflict are increasingly relying on regional intermediaries. On May 21, Iranian officials confirmed that Pakistan is facilitating indirect communication between Tehran and Washington. High-level Pakistani military and civilian officials, including Army Chief General Asim Munir, have visited Tehran to prevent renewed fighting. However, despite active channels, Iran expressed deep suspicion toward Washington's performance and has reportedly hardened its nuclear stance; Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has directed that enriched uranium stockpiles must remain within Iranian borders, a significant hurdle for any potential nuclear agreement. Domestically, President Donald Trump maintains that he is in "no hurry" to reach a settlement, emphasizing that the U.S. and Israel remain aligned in their strategy. While markets reacted to talk of final-stage negotiations by pushing oil prices below $100, the U.S. Senate is moving to exert more control over the situation. A war-powers resolution advanced with bipartisan support, aiming to limit the White House's ability to authorize further military strikes against Iran without congressional approval. Military activity over the last 24 hours has shifted toward deterrence, with the IRGC warning of strikes "beyond the region" if U.S. or Israeli attacks resume.