OVER the next few days, one of the biggest events of the diplomatic calendar will take place in New York in the shape of the UN General Assembly. Though the UN has hardly played a proactive role in addressing ongoing major conflicts — the Israeli assault on Gaza, the Ukraine-Russia war, the US-Israeli attack on Iran — the major stakeholders, particularly those involved in the Middle East conflict, will be present on the same stage, offering another chance to diplomatically resolve this critical conflict. Moreover, Pakistan and Qatar have also of late stepped up efforts to prevent a renewed flare-up, as reports circulate of a fresh possible American attack on Iran.

In this regard, the interior minister was in Tehran on Monday to meet his Iranian counterpart, as well as President Masoud Pezeshkian. The Iranians appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to find a peaceful solution, and importantly, reiterated their desire to return to dialogue. In a parallel development, Qatar has communicated Iran’s conditions to the US for restarting talks. Reportedly, these include a comprehensive end to fighting on all fronts, an end to the US blockade of Iran and release of Tehran’s funds. Most of these seem to be reasonable demands, and if the US agrees to meet them, the process of reopening the Strait of Hormuz and negotiating a long-term peace can begin. However, if Washington replies with more bluster, or worse still, aggression, a volatile situation in the Gulf and its environs can explode into a larger conflagration.

The Iranian president has said he hopes the UNGA meeting can “work towards ending war and bloodshed”. While mostly rhetorical flourishes can be expected when world leaders take the rostrum inside the General Assembly hall, diplomatic efforts on the sidelines, away from the cameras, could produce a fresh attempt to halt the violence in the Gulf, as well as Lebanon and Yemen. The Iranians will be there; the Americans will be there; the Saudis and other Arab states will be there; Pakistan and other mediators will be there. While no miracles should be expected in New York, the UNGA does present a genuine opportunity for all sides — present within the same vicinity — to take small steps towards peace. For one, the US must realise that it blundered by attacking Iran and that all its military efforts have failed to defeat it. Now, it must devote itself to finding a diplomatic solution. The Iranians, on their part, should pledge to allow free movement of vessels through Hormuz, and work to rebuild trust with their Arab neighbours. The brutal Israeli war on Lebanon, as well as the fresh fighting in Yemen, should also be part of a comprehensive peace package for the region. Once this window of opportunity closes, there is no saying when the next will open.

Published in Dawn, September 23rd, 2026