How Pakistan helped secure a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran
How Pakistan helped secure a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran
Pakistan’s Role as Mediator
Just hours before the two-week ceasefire between Iran and the US was declared, Pakistan displayed cautious optimism. A confidential informant shared with the BBC that discussions were proceeding rapidly, with Pakistan serving as a bridge between the two nations.
The source, who was not part of the inner group overseeing the negotiations, noted the atmosphere was “serious and sombre, yet still hopeful that a pause in hostilities might result.” They emphasized the urgency, stating “only a few hours remain.”
Pakistan’s long-standing alliance with Iran, including their shared border and frequent references to their “brotherly” bond, has positioned them as a key negotiator. Meanwhile, the US relationship is underscored by President Trump’s praise for Field Marshall Asim Munir, whom he called his “favourite” military leader, and his assertion that he knows Iran “better than most.”
International Relations and Statements
In a parliamentary address on Tuesday evening, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar remarked, “Up until yesterday, we were highly optimistic that progress was on track,” prior to Israel’s strike on Iran on Monday and Iran’s retaliatory attack on Saudi Arabia. He added that Pakistan was “continuing to manage the situation as effectively as possible.”
The military’s top official, Field Marshall Asim Munir, was even more pointed. When addressing officers on Tuesday, he declared that the Saudi assault “undermines genuine attempts to resolve the conflict through dialogue.” This marked some of the sharpest language Pakistan has used against Iran since the hostilities began.
Pakistan maintains a defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, which has not yet been activated, despite the country’s repeated assaults. After midnight in Pakistan, the Prime Minister posted on X, stating that “diplomatic efforts… are advancing steadily, strongly, and powerfully, with the potential to yield significant outcomes soon.” They urged President Trump to extend the deadline by two weeks and for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz for that duration.
Recent Developments and Negotiations
Shortly after 03:00 local time (midnight BST), Iran’s envoy to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, tweeted that “a positive development has occurred, moving away from a critical phase.” Before 05:00, the Prime Minister declared a ceasefire had been reached and invited both parties to convene in Islamabad on Friday, 10 April to “engage in further talks for a final agreement.”
Uncertainties and Future Outlook
The source told the BBC, “We remain cautious, as the situation still exhibits a degree of instability.” Trust is lacking, with each side holding firm stances, and the question remains: what common ground will they find?
