Israel removes two Iranian officials from targeting list following diplomatic intervention

Israel has reportedly removed Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf from a list of individuals designated for potential elimination. According to a Pakistani official cited by Reuters, Islamabad requested that the United States intervene to prevent these strikes, arguing that their removal would eliminate any remaining channels for diplomatic negotiations. The United States subsequently urged Israel to refrain from targeting these individuals. While the Wall Street Journal, citing U.S. officials, confirmed that the names were removed for a period of four to five days to facilitate potential peace talks, it did not mention Pakistan's specific role in the decision. Pakistan, along with Egypt and Turkey, is currently playing a mediating role between Iran and the U.S. to address the ongoing conflict. Islamabad maintains direct communication with both Washington and Tehran, potentially offering a location for future peace discussions.