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 United States neared completion, Pakistan played a pivotal role in the diplomatic process. A confidential report from a Pakistani source, shared with the BBC, indicated that discussions were ongoing with a sense of urgency. The individual described the atmosphere as “serious yet hopeful,” noting that Pakistan had functioned as a bridge between the two nations. The core team involved in negotiations remained tightly knit, with the outcome still uncertain as time ticked down.

Pakistan’s Role as an Intermediary

Pakistan has long served as a mediator in US-Iran disputes, leveraging its strategic position and historical ties. The country shares a border with Iran and often emphasizes its “brotherly” bond with the Islamic Republic. Meanwhile, its relationship with the US has been marked by direct communication, particularly with President Trump, who has publicly praised Pakistan’s military leader, Field Marshall Asim Munir, as his “favourite” officer. Trump also claimed to have a deeper understanding of Iran’s policies than most.

“Until yesterday, we were very optimistic that things are moving in a positive direction,” stated Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar during a parliamentary address. He added that the recent escalation—Israel’s strike on Iran and Iran’s retaliation against Saudi Arabia—had tested the diplomatic window.

Field Marshall Munir, Pakistan’s top military official, took a stronger stance. In a conversation with military personnel, he criticized Iran’s attack on Saudi Arabia, calling it “a setback for peaceful resolutions.” This marked one of the sharpest critiques from Pakistan toward Iran since the conflict began, signaling growing pressure on the country.

Despite the challenges, Pakistan’s Prime Minister remained optimistic. Around midnight BST, the leader posted on X, asserting that “diplomatic efforts… are progressing steadily, strongly and powerfully,” with the potential to yield significant results. The Prime Minister urged Trump to prolong the ceasefire period and asked Iran to keep the Strait of Hormuz open for the same duration. Shortly after, Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, echoed this sentiment, tweeting that “a step forward from critical, sensitive stage” had been achieved.

Just before 05:00, Pakistan’s Prime Minister confirmed the agreement of a ceasefire, inviting both nations to convene in Islamabad on 10 April for further talks. However, the Pakistan source, speaking to the BBC, emphasized that the situation remains delicate. “We are still being very circumspect,” they said, highlighting the ongoing “continued fragility” of the arrangement. Trust between the parties remains low, with entrenched positions complicating the path to a lasting agreement.

While Pakistan may continue to act as a neutral ground, the question remains: what specific terms will both sides agree upon? The ceasefire, though a notable achievement, is seen as a temporary pause rather than a definitive resolution.