Pakistan has expressed its willingness to mediate between the United States and Iran to help ease the ongoing conflict in West Asia. However, Indian officials caution that this effort may encounter significant challenges. Pakistan is striving to position itself as a peacemaker while simultaneously dealing with tensions on its western border.
One of the main obstacles lies in Pakistan’s delicate balancing act between its relationships with Iran and Saudi Arabia. Iran views both the US and Saudi Arabia as adversaries, while Pakistan maintains strong strategic and military ties with Riyadh. This dynamic presents a complex situation for Pakistan.
There is a growing sense of mistrust from Iran towards Pakistan, with Tehran believing that Islamabad has utilized its goodwill in ways that indirectly benefit the United States. Recent events at the Strait of Hormuz have further fueled this perception. Iran’s decision to allow limited passage to vessels from certain friendly nations, including Pakistan, has been interpreted as indirectly aiding the US.
Pakistan also faces challenges in its alliance with Saudi Arabia. Despite expectations for Islamabad to support Riyadh amid tensions linked to Iran, Pakistan’s decision to maintain a diplomatic stance has caused unease in Saudi circles. This has led the kingdom to explore defense cooperation with Ukraine, feeling let down by Pakistan’s perceived shift towards mediating between the US and Iran.
