Pakistan's efforts to mediate between the United States and Iran have encountered significant challenges, primarily due to Iran's refusal to engage in proposed talks. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar revealed that a US delegation led by Vice-President JD Vance was prepared to visit Islamabad, but the trip was postponed after Iran backed out at the last minute. Dar noted that Washington had shown support for Pakistan's mediation proposal, with both sides nearly reaching an agreement on two occasions in the past ten days. However, Iran's hesitance to participate in a Pakistan-hosted framework indicates a lack of trust in Islamabad's role as a neutral facilitator. Intelligence sources suggest that elements within Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) prefer prolonging tensions with the US and Israel, further complicating diplomatic efforts. While Pakistani officials express optimism about future talks, Indian intelligence views Islamabad's mediation bid as opportunistic, aimed at regaining relevance with Washington and Gulf partners. The ongoing reluctance from Iran underscores the limitations of Pakistan's influence in the region, indicating that any significant breakthrough in mediation remains elusive.