Analysis of Mohammad Hossein Bagheri’s remarks, Head of the Iqbal Forum , in an interview with the well-known Pakistani media outlet “Siasat

focusing on the challenges facing Iran–U.S. negotiations mediated by Pakistan and the possibility of failure if excessive demands continue.

This interview was conducted yesterday.

1. Potential deadlock; insistence on unjustified demands

Bagheri believes that if the United States continues to insist on unilateral and unjustified demands (such as limiting Iran’s missile program or regional influence), the negotiations will fail. He stresses that Iran is now in a position of strength and is no longer willing to offer free concessions as in the past (for example, during the nuclear deal period).

He argues that ignoring the new regional realities will only lead to diplomatic deadlock.

2. Strategic importance and expertise of the Iranian delegation

He considers the 71-member Iranian delegation in Islamabad one of the most specialized in the country’s diplomatic history.

The presence of key figures such as Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Abbas Araghchi, and Abdolnaser Hemmati shows that Iran has entered negotiations with a comprehensive political, military, and economic framework, seeking a deal with enforceable guarantees.

3. Realistic outlook and time-buying concerns

Despite the presence of J.D. Vance, Bagheri doubts U.S. intentions and believes they are attempting to buy time.

He argues that both the United States and Israel, due to upcoming elections, may lack the ability to make firm and lasting decisions and could again withdraw from commitments.

4. Preconditions and leverage tools

Iran emphasizes two main conditions: an immediate end to the war in Lebanon and the release of $100 billion in frozen assets.

Bagheri states that Iran may use the Strait of Hormuz as an economic leverage tool by imposing transit fees to secure revenue.

5. Iran as an emerging regional power

He believes Iran, relying on domestic capacity, industrial self-sufficiency, and a young educated population, is on a path to becoming the dominant regional power if external pressure is reduced over the next decade.

He urges global and regional actors to recognize this shift and warns that pressure-based approaches will no longer be effective.

6. Pakistan’s pivotal role

Bagheri suggests Pakistan should use the current situation to strengthen trade infrastructure and position its ports as a hub for Iranian trade, reducing dependence on Gulf ports.