Ziggy Ojiegbe

Israel has held off eliminating Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araqchi, as part of a broader effort to avoid closing off fragile diplomatic channels that could still help contain the conflict.

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Araqchi, a central figure in Iran’s foreign policy and a key link to indirect talks with Washington, was among senior officials Israel had considered targeting in recent days, according to reports citing U.S. officials. Parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf was also under consideration. Both men were later removed from a list of potential targets for several days as diplomatic activity intensified.

The decision reflects a calculated trade-off. While Israel has expanded its military campaign and signaled that no Iranian official is automatically off-limits, targeting figures directly involved in diplomacy risks eliminating the very counterparts needed for any negotiations. Officials familiar with the situation say removing Araqchi in particular could disrupt already limited communication channels and make de-escalation significantly harder.

That concern has been reinforced by behind-the-scenes mediation led by Pakistan, alongside Turkey and Egypt. These countries have maintained rare lines of contact with both Tehran and Washington at a time when direct engagement remains largely frozen. Pakistan has played a particularly active role, relaying messages and even transmitting a U.S. proposal aimed at ending the war.

The proposal, attributed to U.S. President Donald Trump, includes curbs on Iran’s nuclear program, limits on its ballistic missile development and a reduction in support for regional allies. Iranian officials have acknowledged receiving the plan and say it is under review, though they have publicly downplayed the prospect of immediate negotiations.

Within this context, eliminating Araqchi could undercut ongoing efforts before they fully take shape. Diplomats warn that removing senior political figures involved in negotiations often hardens positions on both sides and empowers factions less willing to compromise.

Israel’s restraint, however, appears temporary and tactical rather than a shift in policy. Israeli leaders have repeatedly emphasized their willingness to target senior Iranian figures, and military operations across multiple fronts continue. Defence Minister Israel Katz has said he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu authorized broader targeting powers, underscoring the intensity of the campaign.

For now, the pause highlights the tension between military objectives and diplomatic realities. Israel continues to apply pressure on Iran while stopping short of actions that could eliminate remaining avenues for dialogue. Keeping Araqchi alive preserves at least one viable channel for communication at a moment when the risk of wider escalation remains high.