India, April 9 --  After weeks of intense fighting, mounting casualties, and rising global fears, the United States and Iran now face a critical diplomatic moment in Islamabad. The ongoing conflict has shaken energy markets, threatened maritime trade, and pushed several countries to demand urgent peace efforts. A fragile two-week ceasefire has paused direct hostilities, but leaders know that the coming talks will decide whether the war ends or resumes with greater force.

Pakistan stepped in as a mediator at a crucial stage when earlier negotiations nearly collapsed. Officials worked through last-minute diplomatic channels to keep both sides engaged and prevent further escalation. The ceasefire marked a rare breakthrough after nearly...