Pakistan’s role as a mediator between Iran and the US is being questioned following reports of an Iranian aircraft being stationed at a military base near Rawalpindi. The presence of the aircraft at Nur Khan Air Base in Pakistan during a ceasefire period has raised concerns about Islamabad’s stance in the West Asia conflict.
While Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the news report as “misleading and sensationalized,” it did not refute the aircraft’s presence. The ministry clarified that the Iranian aircraft’s arrival in Pakistan was unrelated to any military operations or agreements.
The American broadcaster CBS recently reported that Pakistan had allowed Iran to park its military aircraft on its airfields, potentially shielding them from US airstrikes. US Senator Lindsey Graham called for a reassessment of Pakistan’s role if these reports are accurate, emphasizing the need for transparency in the mediation process.
The news report has reignited debates in the US about Pakistan’s ability to maintain security ties with the US while fostering strategic relationships with American adversaries. Past accusations of Pakistan playing a “double game” by American officials have resurfaced, particularly in light of President Trump’s criticism of Pakistan’s alleged support for militants in Afghanistan.
