Pakistan’s Role as ‘Honest Mediator’ Between US and Iran Reshapes International Image, Says PM Shehbaz
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stated that Pakistan’s international image has “completely changed” due to its diplomatic efforts in mediating between Iran and the United States. The mediation follows a conflict sparked by a coordinated US-Israeli attack on Iran in February.
In his first interview since the conflict began, speaking with The Sunday Times, the Prime Minister described the current era as “one of the shining moments in our history.” He characterized Pakistan as an “honest mediator” trusted by global leaders and credited the country’s efforts with helping to secure an extended ceasefire that remains in effect.
Global Trust and Diplomatic Partnerships
Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized that the mediation process has been supported by a high level of trust from multiple international actors. “Fortunately, Iran trusts Pakistan as does the US administration — and also the Gulf states,” he said.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for their willingness to accept Pakistan’s invitation for talks.
Unified Political and Military Leadership
The Prime Minister attributed these diplomatic successes to a combined effort between Pakistan’s political and military hierarchies, noting that the country had been placed in a “prestigious position” through a “stroke of excellent luck.”
He specifically praised the contributions of key officials:
- Field Marshal Asim Munir: PM Shehbaz acknowledged that the field marshal played a “critical role, which will be recorded in history.”
- Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar: The Prime Minister lauded Dar’s “untiring efforts” and his active engagement with international counterparts.
Broader Regional Security and Relations
During the interview, PM Shehbaz also acknowledged the role of US President Donald Trump in previous regional stability, thanking him for helping negotiate a ceasefire between Pakistan and India. He remarked that without that intervention, “the world may have witnessed a major catastrophe in South Asia.”
Addressing security concerns regarding Afghanistan, the Prime Minister defended the use of “kinetic action against terrorist hideouts and support infrastructure.” He stated that Islamabad had repeatedly sent peaceful messages to Kabul, noting that Pakistan’s primary demand was a commitment that terrorist outfits would not be allowed to operate from Kabul.
Looking Forward: The Path to Long-Term Peace
While a ceasefire is currently in place, the Prime Minister indicated that the goal is to transition toward a more permanent resolution. He noted that “peace is never won easily” and requires “patience, sagacity and ability to move things despite the most difficult challenges.”
As a possible next step, the Prime Minister expressed hope for another round of face-to-face talks in Islamabad. He stated that Pakistan is continuing its efforts to ensure the peace process achieves “long-lasting peace” through a future session in the capital, adding, “we are hopeful that will happen.”
