Pakistani journalist Hamid Mir stated that Pakistan played a role as a facilitator, not a direct mediator, in brokering a two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran. The ceasefire, facilitated by Pakistan, halted a six-week conflict that caused widespread casualties and disrupted global energy supplies.
In an interview with India Today Consulting Editor Rajdeep Sardesai, Mir highlighted that multiple stakeholders, including US President Donald Trump and Iranian leadership, acknowledged Islamabad’s contribution to de-escalation efforts between the US and Iran.
Mir emphasized the distinction between mediation and facilitation, noting that Pakistan’s diplomatic constraints prevented it from being a full mediator in the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. He described Pakistan’s role as that of a facilitator due to limited access to all parties involved.
Following Pakistan’s outreach post-US-Israeli strikes on Iran, talks between the US and Iran are scheduled for April 10 to address differences and work towards a peace agreement. Mir revealed that Pakistan’s efforts began with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar initiating communication between relevant parties to prevent further escalation.
Mir explained that Pakistan initially focused on establishing communication channels between Iran and Saudi Arabia to prevent conflict escalation, given Pakistan’s cooperation pact with Saudi Arabia. As the situation evolved, Pakistan’s role transitioned into that of a facilitator with the involvement of Turkey.
Mir clarified that Ishaq Dar, with support from civilian and military leadership, led the ceasefire efforts, bridging gaps between Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the US. He cautioned that the ceasefire deal should be seen as a temporary measure, not a permanent solution, urging for further efforts towards a lasting resolution endorsed by the UN Security Council.
Highlighting Iran’s perspective, Mir mentioned that Iranians seek a permanent solution involving the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and the liberation of Al-Aqsa Mosque from Israel.