Why Pakistan is emerging as a mediator between the US and Iran

Pakistan has stepped into a diplomatic role as tensions rise between the United States and Iran, positioning itself as a mediator in efforts to reduce escalation.

According to officials, Islamabad has been involved in relaying messages between the two sides, while also signaling readiness to host potential talks.

Analysts say Pakistan’s role is shaped by a combination of geography, political ties, and economic interests.

The country shares a border with Iran and maintains working relations with both Tehran and Washington, while also holding strategic partnerships with Gulf states. This positioning allows it to act as a potential bridge at a time when direct communication between the US and Iran remains limited.

Pakistan also has strong incentives to support de-escalation. Rising oil prices and regional instability are adding pressure to its economy, particularly as it depends heavily on energy imports from the Middle East.

Historically, Pakistan has played roles in major diplomatic efforts. It helped facilitate backchannel communication between the US and China in the 1970s, contributed to negotiations surrounding the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan, and later supported talks involving Afghanistan.

These factors together explain why Pakistan is now emerging as a diplomatic intermediary in the current crisis.