How Pakistan helped secure a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran
How Pakistan helped secure a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran
Just days before a two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States was announced, Pakistan emerged as a key player in the diplomatic efforts. A confidential source from Pakistan shared with the BBC that the talks were proceeding at a steady pace, with the nation serving as a bridge between the two adversaries. The negotiations, involving a select group from Pakistan’s side, were described as “sombre and serious” but still optimistic about achieving a halt in hostilities. The source noted that “a few hours remain” before the final agreement. They were not part of the inner circle overseeing the discussions.
Pakistan has long maintained a complex relationship with both Iran and the US. The country shares a border with Iran and often emphasizes its “brotherly” ties with the Islamic Republic. Meanwhile, President Trump has praised Field Marshall Asim Munir, head of Pakistan’s military, as his “favourite” Field Marshall and claimed to know Iran “better than most.” Despite this, an agreement appeared uncertain. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar mentioned in a parliamentary address on Tuesday that “until yesterday, we were very optimistic that things are moving in a positive direction,” but the situation shifted after Israel’s attack on Iran and Iran’s retaliation against Saudi Arabia.
Field Marshall Munir expressed stronger criticism, speaking to military officials on Tuesday. He stated that the assault on Saudi Arabia “spoils sincere efforts to resolve the conflict through peaceful means.” This marked one of the most pointed statements from Pakistan toward Iran since the dispute began. Analysts suggested that such remarks might heighten pressure on Iran. Pakistan has a defense pact with Saudi Arabia, though it has not been activated despite repeated attacks on the kingdom.
As midnight approached in Pakistan, the Prime Minister shared on X that “diplomatic efforts… are progressing steadily, strongly and powerfully with the potential to lead to substantive results in near future.” He urged President Trump to extend the ceasefire deadline by two weeks and for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz for the same duration. Shortly after, Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, tweeted around 03:00 local time (midnight BST) that “a step forward from critical, sensitive stage” had been achieved. By 05:00, the Prime Minister declared a ceasefire had been reached and invited both nations to meet in Islamabad on Friday, 10 April for further talks.
The Pakistan source told the BBC that the agreement “still leaves us very circumspect,” highlighting the “continued fragility” of the situation. Trust between the two sides remains low, with entrenched positions making resolution challenging. While Pakistan may yet host both parties at a negotiating table, the question remains: what common ground can be found to solidify the truce?