The high-stakes diplomacy that led to Pakistan hosting US-Iran peace talks
The high-stakes diplomacy that led to Pakistan hosting US-Iran peace talks
Pakistan’s role in brokering a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran has sparked national celebration. With peace talks set to commence in Islamabad on Saturday, the capital has declared a two-day holiday to mark the event. Although the talks’ success remains uncertain, the city has already mobilized extensive security measures, including the deployment of around 10,000 police and military personnel. The significance of this diplomatic effort extends beyond regional stability, as the Strait of Hormuz—a critical oil transit route—remains a focal point for global energy security.
Pakistan’s position is pivotal for its own security. If negotiations falter and the nation becomes embroiled in conflict with Iran, experts warn of a “nightmare scenario,” with three of its borders potentially turning volatile. Abdul Basit, a South Asia analyst at Nanyang Technological University, highlights that Pakistan is already managing insurgencies in two provinces and could face heightened tensions with Afghanistan and India. “Pakistan cannot afford a war on three fronts,” he explains.
Despite these risks, national pride has surged on social media, with viral memes celebrating the achievement. Basit notes that no other country managed to secure the ceasefire, averting what could have been a catastrophic breakdown in relations. This success is especially meaningful for a nation grappling with political instability, economic fragility, and longstanding rivalries with India.
Pakistan’s unique standing as a trusted mediator between the US, Iran, and Gulf states has enabled this breakthrough. The reconciliation process is spearheaded by Asim Munir, the country’s military chief, whom Trump once praised as his “favourite field marshal.” Munir’s influence stems from the army’s deep entanglement in Pakistani politics. His efforts during Trump’s second term included two notable victories: delivering the suspect behind the 2021 Kabul airport bombing and demonstrating support for Trump’s role in preventing a wider India-US conflict.
Maleeha Lodhi, a former Pakistan ambassador to the US and UN, emphasizes that Munir’s actions on CIA intelligence—such as handing over the Kabul bomber—were instrumental in securing Trump’s goodwill. “Trump was so grateful he referenced it in his first address to Congress,” she says. Additionally, Pakistan’s nomination of Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize underscores its strategic alignment with the US.
Further strengthening ties, Pakistan has committed to providing access to key minerals vital to US national security. In September 2025, the Frontier Works Organisation, a military-linked mining entity, inked a $500m deal with a US firm. The ceremony, held at the Prime Minister House, saw Munir present. Later in January, a partnership with World Liberty Financials—a cryptocurrency venture co-founded by Trump—aimed to integrate a stablecoin into Pakistan’s digital payments system, deepening economic collaboration.
Yet Pakistan’s close relationship with the US has not prevented it from taking firm stances. It officially condemned the initial US-Israeli strikes on Iran but also issued a strong rebuke after Iran attacked Saudi oil facilities. On 7 April, the country abstained from a UN Security Council resolution urging coordinated efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, reflecting its balancing act between regional allies and global interests.
