As the one-year anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack nears, Pakistan finds itself in a dual narrative, according to a report. On one side, it positions itself as a mediator in the Middle East crisis, while on the other, it faces accusations of cross-border terrorism in Kashmir. This contradiction poses a challenge to Pakistan’s global image.
The report highlights Pakistan’s historical reliance on mediation to maintain diplomatic relevance, particularly during times of regional instability. By involving itself in crises beyond its borders, Pakistan aims to shift its perception from a security threat to a problem solver. However, this strategy often clashes with its internal complexities.
With the upcoming anniversary of the Pahalgam attack, the focus shifts to Pakistan’s credibility rather than assigning blame. The country’s alleged tolerance towards non-state actors undermines its moral authority to mediate conflicts elsewhere, creating a significant dilemma. Pakistan’s foreign policy, influenced by its military establishment, reflects a dual approach of projecting peace abroad while historically pursuing asymmetric strategies in its immediate vicinity.
The expert emphasizes that Pakistan’s foreign policy is not solely guided by civilian leadership but significantly influenced by its military. While seeking stability in regions like Iran to protect its interests, in Kashmir, instability has been viewed as a tool for leverage. This situational approach to foreign policy raises questions about Pakistan’s consistency and coherence in its diplomatic endeavors. Criticizing Islamabad’s contradictory stance, the expert concludes that Pakistan’s role as a mediator is not surprising but rather a strategic response under constraints.
