Pakistan emerges as diplomatic winner in Iran war, for now

Pakistan is emerging as a significant diplomatic player in the conclusion of the Iran war, a conflict that began with direct Israeli involvement but is now being shaped by a framework involving Washington, Tehran, and Islamabad. This development has placed Israel in an uncomfortable position, observing the endgame being negotiated through Pakistani channels.

The war's conclusion is marked by contrasting perspectives. While parts of the American strategic community question the U.S.'s achievement of its original objectives, with some commentary suggesting Iran successfully influenced the post-war diplomatic process, Pakistani media is celebrating Islamabad's role in brokering a ceasefire and guiding negotiations toward a settlement. This positions Pakistan as an architect of peace, a stark contrast to the introspection occurring in the U.S.

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Israel was not pleased that Pakistan had emerged as the mediator between Washington and Tehran.

Israel's unease with Pakistan's mediating role is notable, especially given the decades of discreet communication between the two nations despite the absence of formal ties. The concern appears to stem not from Pakistan's involvement itself, but from what this central role might signify. Pakistan's refusal to join the Abraham Accords, despite U.S. encouragement, suggests its strategic calculation prioritizes leverage over formal repositioning toward Israel. Washington's apparent willingness to accept this calculation indicates that securing a diplomatic channel to Tehran currently holds more importance than pressing Islamabad on normalization.

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trusts the American government to take care of Israeli security interests.