‘Some progress, not there yet’: Rubio credits Pakistan, Qatar as US-Iran talks intensify

Pakistan emerges as key mediator

The negotiations are mainly focused on Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile and control over the Strait of Hormuz, whose closure since the war began has triggered a global energy crisis.

Rubio also praised Pakistan’s role in the talks, saying Islamabad had become the “primary interlocutor” between Washington and Tehran. “Pakistan has done an admirable job,” Rubio said, adding that Field Marshal Asim Munir could travel to Iran soon as part of ongoing mediation efforts. “We are in constant communication with him at the highest level of our government,” he added.

SECRETARY RUBIO on IRAN NEGOTIATIONS: The primary interlocutor on this has been Pakistan and they’ve done an admirable job. We’ve been working with them on all of this and that will remain the case. pic.twitter.com/5FdAcrpwvF

— Department of State (@StateDept) May 22, 2026

According to Reuters, Pakistani Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi also held another round of talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in Tehran this week as diplomatic channels remained active.

Qatar joins diplomatic push

Meanwhile, Qatar has also stepped up diplomatic efforts, sending a negotiating team to Tehran to help bridge differences between the two sides. According to Reuters, the Qatari team has been working in coordination with the United States.

US warns Iran over Strait of Hormuz

Rubio reiterated Washington’s opposition to Iran’s proposed tolling system in the Strait of Hormuz, calling the idea “unacceptable”. “We’re dealing with a very difficult group of people, and if it doesn’t change, then the president’s been clear he has other options,” Rubio warned.

Oil prices rise amid uncertainty

The uncertainty around the negotiations has continued to shake global markets, with oil prices rising and the US dollar strengthening amid fears that the conflict could further disrupt global energy supplies.

(With inputs from Reuters)