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 agreement, Pakistan played a pivotal role in the final stages. A confidential report from a Pakistani official shared with the BBC revealed that discussions were progressing rapidly, with the nation acting as a key bridge between the two adversaries. The negotiators from Pakistan’s side were described as a tightly knit group, working under tense but optimistic conditions. The official noted that the situation remained precarious, with only a few hours left before a decision was expected.

Pakistan has long maintained ties with Iran, rooted in shared borders and historical connections. This relationship, often called “brotherly,” has seen the country mediate between the two nations in recent weeks. Meanwhile, its alliance with Saudi Arabia—though not yet activated—added another layer of complexity. President Trump, who has praised Pakistan’s military leadership, referred to Field Marshall Asim Munir as his “favorite” general and claimed to understand Iran better than most. These remarks underscored the unique diplomatic position Pakistan held in the talks.

Just before the ceasefire was confirmed, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, addressed parliament. He stated, “Until yesterday we were very optimistic that things are moving in a positive direction,” highlighting the urgency of the moment. However, the momentum was threatened by recent events: Israel’s strike on Iran and Iran’s retaliation against Saudi Arabia. Despite these setbacks, Pakistan continued to push for resolution, according to Dar. The Field Marshall was even more pointed, criticizing Iran’s actions during a meeting with military officials. He said the attack on Saudi Arabia “spoils sincere efforts to resolve the conflict through peaceful means,” marking a rare display of public dissent toward Iran.

In the early hours of the morning, Pakistan’s Prime Minister shared a message on X, emphasizing that “diplomatic efforts… are progressing steadily, strongly and powerfully” and hinting at “substantive results” ahead. The Prime Minister also urged Trump to extend the ceasefire period and for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz. Shortly afterward, Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, posted on X at 03:00 local time, stating there had been “a step forward from critical, sensitive stage.” By 05:00, the Prime Minister declared a ceasefire agreement, inviting both sides to gather in Islamabad on April 10 for further talks.

Despite the progress, the situation remains fragile. The Pakistan source told the BBC, “We are still being very circumspect,” warning that the agreement was “continued fragility” in the conflict. Trust between the US and Iran remains low, with both sides clinging to firm positions. While Pakistan may have succeeded in bringing the parties to a table, the challenge now lies in identifying common ground for lasting peace.