Pakistan’s efforts to act as a mediator in the current conflict have surprised many. However, this is not entirely unexpected. Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir has a special relationship with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Munir has claimed to be Trump’s favorite field marshal, and Trump has praised him, noting that Munir understands Iran “better than anyone else.” Iran and Pakistan share not only a nearly 900-kilometer-long border but are also culturally and religiously connected neighboring countries. Both nations have described their relations as “fraternal.”
There are no U.S. Air Force bases in Pakistan. While other Gulf countries have shown some involvement in this conflict, Pakistan has remained apart until now. Importantly, Pakistan appears interested in engaging in this matter. If peace is established between the U.S. and Iran, it would benefit Pakistan. However, whether a country entangled in disputes with Afghanistan and India can successfully present itself as a ‘peace broker’ remains an open question.
Pakistan has been working to maintain balance between Iran and the U.S. by facilitating message exchanges between both sides, inviting foreign ministers from other Muslim nations concerned about the conflict to participate in talks, and conducting diplomatic dialogues via telephone. Nonetheless, this balancing act carries risks. Pakistan is heavily dependent on imported oil, and a protracted conflict could increase its economic burdens.
Under Pakistan’s security agreement with Saudi Arabia, any attack on one country is regarded as an attack on both. If Pakistan becomes involved in the war, there are concerns about the impact on its internal standing. After U.S. and Israeli airstrikes resulted in the death of Iran’s supreme leader, protests erupted in Pakistan. The country’s leaders are sensitive about expressing sympathy toward Iran.
Questions have also been raised about Pakistan’s international image and diplomatic role. Success in mediating this war could elevate Pakistan’s status in global diplomacy. Even if unsuccessful, Pakistan could still be seen as having made a conscientious effort. Diplomatic discussions continue, but securing a peace agreement will not be easy.
