Egypt, Turkey, and Pakistan continue mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran

Egypt, Turkey, and Pakistan are continuing their mediation efforts between the United States and Iran, aiming to bridge remaining differences and achieve a comprehensive agreement to end the ongoing conflict. According to Axios, all parties believe a full agreement is still possible, with mediators hoping to facilitate another round of negotiations before the current ceasefire expires on April 21. President Trump is reportedly considering resuming strikes if a U.S. naval blockade fails to compel Iran to change its course. The foreign ministers of Egypt and Turkey held separate phone calls with their Pakistani counterpart before engaging with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. These three nations previously spearheaded mediation efforts that led to a two-week ceasefire. While U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff initially rejected Iran's proposal, Egypt, Pakistan, and Turkey intervened to draft revisions, leading to the acceptance of a revised ceasefire proposal. Axios highlighted Egypt's significant role in securing the ceasefire, noting its diplomatic influence in Iran and Gaza, with Pakistan leading the broader mediation and Turkey offering additional support. Bloomberg also reported intensified diplomatic efforts by Egypt and Pakistan, including high-level contacts, just hours before President Trump's deadline for escalating the conflict.