Pakistan says army chief held talks with Iran focused on preventing further escalation in MidEast

Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, held discussions with Iran focused on preventing further escalation in the Middle East and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, according to a Pakistani military statement on Tuesday. Separately, Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss restoring the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and reducing regional tensions. Naqvi stated, "Our discussion focused on the Iran US conflict, tensions in the Middle East and the way forward." These talks occurred after the US initiated "Operation Economic Outcast" against Iran, imposing sanctions on its military activities, cyber threats, and illicit oil trade. Iran's Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh responded, "We are fully prepared for the US sanctions" and threatened retaliation, while a Revolutionary Guard Corps spokesperson vowed "heavy blows to US vital interests" if Iran's infrastructure is threatened.