Pakistan's good ties with US, Iran pay off

KARACHI:

Pakistan's role as a possible host of talks aimed at ending the Iran war builds on its courtship of United States President Donald Trump and its reputation as a relatively neutral player with long-standing ties to neighbouring Iran's Islamic Republic.

Pakistan has initiated high-level consultations with key stakeholders as it positions itself for a potential diplomatic role in facilitating talks between Iran and the United States, amid escalating tensions and fears of a wider conflict.

According to well-placed diplomatic sources, the federal government has begun engaging both regional and international actors to explore the possibility of hosting negotiations in Pakistan.

PM Shehbaz Sharif is said to be in contact with close allied countries and relevant stakeholders, while outreach has also been made to the Iranian leadership.

At the same time, contacts at the highest military level have reportedly been established with US officials as part of parallel diplomatic efforts.

Sources said discussions are underway on the framework for possible talks in Islamabad, should both sides agree. In such a scenario, Pakistan would aim to facilitate an initial temporary ceasefire between Iran and the United States as a first step toward de-escalation.

Diplomatic sources emphasised that Pakistan's role has become more significant at a time when the global economic outlook is under strain due to the conflict.

"All eyes are on Pakistan," a source said, noting that Islamabad is among the few countries maintaining working relations with both Washington and Tehran, enabling it to play a bridging role in efforts to prevent further escalation.