How Pakistan helped secure a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran
How Pakistan helped secure a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran
As the two-week ceasefire between Iran and the US neared completion, Pakistan played a pivotal role in fostering diplomatic momentum. An unnamed official shared with the BBC that discussions were progressing at a steady rate, with Pakistan serving as a key mediator. The negotiations, conducted by a select group within the country, were described as “serious and solemn,” yet still carrying a “hopeful tone” for achieving a pause in hostilities. The source emphasized that “only a few hours remained” before the agreement was finalized.
A Historical Bond and Strategic Interests
Pakistan’s long-standing ties with Iran, including a shared border and mutual cultural connections, have historically positioned it as a reliable intermediary. Meanwhile, President Trump highlighted his personal rapport with Pakistan’s military leadership, calling Field Marshall Asim Munir his “preferred” general. He also claimed to have a deeper understanding of Iran’s policies than most. However, the path to agreement remained uncertain.
“Until yesterday, we were very optimistic that things are moving in a positive direction,” said Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar during a parliamentary address. He noted the recent escalation—Israel’s strike on Iran and Iran’s retaliatory attack on Saudi Arabia—had created challenges, but Pakistan “continued to manage the situation as best as possible.”
Field Marshall Munir, Pakistan’s top military figure, expressed sharper criticism. In a conversation with officials, he stated that the Saudi attack “undermined genuine efforts to reach a peaceful resolution.” This marked one of the most pointed statements from Pakistan against Iran since the conflict began. Analysts speculated that such remarks might intensify pressure on Tehran.
Pakistan maintains a defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, which has not yet been activated despite multiple attacks on the kingdom. Later that night, the Prime Minister posted on X, asserting that “diplomatic efforts… are advancing steadily, strongly, and powerfully,” with the potential for “meaningful outcomes” soon. He urged President Trump to prolong the ceasefire by two weeks and for Iran to keep the Strait of Hormuz open during that time.
Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, echoed the progress, tweeting at 03:00 local time that “a step forward” had been taken from “a critical and sensitive stage.” Just before 05:00, Pakistan’s Prime Minister confirmed the ceasefire was reached, inviting both nations to meet in Islamabad on April 10 for further talks. The official added that the situation “remained highly precarious,” with lingering mistrust and entrenched positions.
Despite hosting both parties at the negotiating table, the question persists: what common ground can be found to solidify the deal? The fragile truce hinges on continued cooperation from all sides.
