WASHINGTON: Pakistan’s attempts to position itself as a mediator in the ongoing West Asia conflict have reportedly come under scrutiny within the United States administration, with concerns emerging over Islamabad’s handling of communications between Washington and Tehran.
According to reports by CNN and CBS News, sections within the administration of US President Donald Trump are questioning Pakistan’s neutrality and credibility in the mediation process involving Iran.
The reports claimed that the Iranian response to a peace overture from the United States was conveyed to Washington through Pakistani channels after Islamabad hosted rounds of dialogue between the two sides.
CNN reported that some officials close to President Trump believe Pakistan may not have accurately conveyed Washington’s concerns and dissatisfaction regarding the stalled peace process. The report further stated that certain US officials suspect Pakistan presented a more positive interpretation of Iran’s position than what existed in reality.
Meanwhile, CBS News reported that Pakistan had allegedly allowed Iranian military aircraft to remain stationed at Pakistani airbases during heightened tensions in the region.
Citing unnamed US officials, CBS claimed that several Iranian aircraft, including an Iranian Air Force RC-130 reconnaissance aircraft, were reportedly moved to Pakistan’s Nur Khan Air Base following the ceasefire announcement made by Trump earlier this year.
The reports have reportedly deepened mistrust within sections of the US administration regarding Pakistan’s dual role as both mediator and strategic actor in the conflict.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday said Tehran had multiple options ahead, including negotiations “with dignity and authority” or continuing confrontation if required.
“The rational, logical and national interest-based preference is that the victory achieved by the armed forces on the battlefield is also completed in the field of diplomacy,” Pezeshkian said.
Reacting sharply, President Donald Trump dismissed Iran’s proposal, describing it as “unacceptable” and claiming the current ceasefire was on “life support”.
“They are on life support. The ceasefire is on massive life support,” Trump said while reiterating that Iran had suffered military setbacks.
Reports also suggest that with Trump expected to travel to Beijing for discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, China may emerge as an important player in future diplomatic efforts aimed at maintaining peace in West Asia.
