WEB DESK (MNN); Pakistan is emerging as a key mediator in efforts to de-escalate the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, leveraging its diplomatic ties with both Washington and Tehran, according to a report by the Financial Times.
The report highlights the role of Pakistan’s military leadership, particularly Asim Munir, who is utilising strong relations with Iran and US President Donald Trump to help facilitate dialogue.
Senior Pakistani officials are reportedly engaged in back-channel communications involving key US figures, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, as part of quiet diplomatic efforts to bridge differences between the two sides.
Recent high-level contacts include a conversation between General Asim Munir and President Trump, as well as talks between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The timing of these engagements coincided with Trump’s decision to delay potential strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure, following what he described as “productive” discussions.
While the exact link between Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach and the US decision remains unclear, the White House has termed the discussions sensitive and declined further comment.
Pakistan’s neutral stance—combined with the absence of a significant US military footprint on its soil—has positioned it as a credible intermediary. This has also contributed to the country avoiding direct Iranian military retaliation, unlike some regional states.
Diplomatic efforts have expanded beyond Pakistan, with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar holding talks with Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, while Egypt’s top diplomat Badr Abdelatty has also joined consultations involving Iranian and Pakistani officials.
Despite these efforts, Iranian authorities maintain that no formal negotiations with the United States have taken place. However, Tehran has acknowledged receiving messages from “friendly countries” indicating Washington’s interest in dialogue.
Officials say Pakistan, alongside Türkiye and Egypt, is engaged in “active back-channel diplomacy” to restore peace, with reports suggesting some progress toward reducing tensions and finding a sustainable resolution.
The conflict, now in its fourth week, has heightened regional instability and contributed to a global fuel crisis. Pakistan’s leadership has reiterated its commitment to playing a constructive role in promoting dialogue and reducing confrontation.
