‘Big guns’ descend on Tehran as talks enter decisive phase

CHIEF of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir is embraced by Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni upon his arrival in Tehran.—AFP • Rubio says US in constant contact with Field Marshal Munir as the latter arrives in Iran• Notes ‘some progress’ made but insists more work needed• US considers ‘Plan B’ with willing Nato countries over Hormuz• Iran rules out deal if US demands handover of enriched uranium• Qatar joins mediation push in coordination with US• UAE says Iran’s N-programme now top concern ISLAMABAD: Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir reached Tehran on Friday as efforts to broker an interim understanding between the United States and Iran entered a decisive phase amid cautious hopes that a fragile ceasefire around the Persian Gulf could be stabilised before tensions spiral again. The visit came at a time when negotiations appeared to have moved beyond political signalling into detailed bargaining over a narrow interim framework dealing with the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief and guarantees against renewed military action. Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said Field Marshal Munir had travelled to Tehran “as part of ongoing mediation efforts”. “On arrival, he was received and warmly welcomed by Iranian Minister for Interior Eskandar Momeni. Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi was also present at the reception,” it said. Mr Naqvi had remained in Tehran after earlier consultations with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Interior Minister Momeni. Diplomatic sources said Field Marshal Munir’s presence indicated movement from exploratory diplomacy towards strategic-level bargaining focused on escalation control, maritime security and possible guarantees linked to a phased arrangement. The mediation process around Tehran has widened over the past 48 hours. Qatar also dispatched a negotiating team to the Iranian capital in coordination with the United States, while Sa