Top diplomats from key regional powers convened in Islamabad on Sunday in an effort to de-escalate the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, now entering its second month. The talks, hosted by Pakistan, brought together foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt. Despite the diplomatic push, there were few immediate signs of progress as hostilities continued across the region.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that he held extensive discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the escalating situation. The conflict, which began with coordinated strikes by United States and Israel on Iranian targets, has since spiraled into a broader regional confrontation. Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and neighboring Gulf states, intensifying fears of a wider war.

According to estimates, more than 3,000 people have been killed since the conflict began, with significant casualties reported across Iran, Israel and other affected countries. The war has also disrupted global energy markets, particularly due to tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for oil and gas shipments. Analysts warn that continued instability in the region could have far-reaching economic consequences.

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The United States and Israel were not participants in the Islamabad talks, although Washington has reportedly proposed a 15-point framework aimed at ending the conflict. The proposal was conveyed to Iran through Pakistani intermediaries. However, Iranian officials have publicly rejected the framework, instead reportedly drafting their own proposal that includes demands for a ceasefire, security guarantees, reparations and recognition of Iran’s control over key strategic assets.

Meanwhile, the conflict has expanded further with the involvement of Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who launched missile strikes targeting Israeli military sites. The escalation raises concerns over maritime security, particularly in the Red Sea and surrounding waterways. Increased attacks on commercial shipping could disrupt global trade routes, especially through chokepoints like the Bab el-Mandeb, compounding existing pressures on energy supplies.

Tensions escalated further after Iran warned it could target Israeli and American-affiliated institutions in the region following reported airstrikes on Iranian universities. The threat underscores the growing risk of the conflict spilling into new domains, including civilian and academic infrastructure. As diplomatic efforts continue, the gap between the opposing sides remains wide, with no clear path to a ceasefire in sight.

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