The Pakistan Air Force provided an escort for Iranian negotiators returning home following inconclusive peace discussions with the United States held in Islamabad last weekend. This precaution was taken amid fears that Israel might target the delegation during their journey back.
Approximately two dozen fighter jets were deployed for the mission, supported by the Air Force’s Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), to guarantee the delegation’s safe passage. Pakistani officials indicated that similar security measures could be extended for future negotiations if Tehran requests them, while normally Pakistani aircraft would only meet the delegation upon their entry into Pakistani airspace.
This operation highlights Pakistan’s expanding diplomatic and security role in facilitating delicate regional talks between Tehran and Washington. One security official described the escort as a “massive operational mission,” emphasizing the extensive military coordination involved and the responsibility Pakistan assumed for the delegates’ safety even after they left the country.
Another source involved in the negotiations confirmed that the Iranian delegation was accompanied all the way to Tehran, with Pakistan maintaining security responsibility beyond the scope of the talks. Among the aircraft used were Chinese-made J-10 fighters, considered some of the most advanced in the Pakistan Air Force fleet.
The Iranian delegation was led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf. Concerns about potential threats during their travel prompted Islamabad to insist on providing a military escort. A regional diplomat familiar with Tehran’s position noted that while the threat was hypothetical, Pakistan chose to err on the side of caution. The delegation itself did not formally request the escort but did not rule out the possibility of an Israeli strike.
Preparations are reportedly underway for another round of talks, possibly as soon as this weekend, as diplomatic efforts continue despite the absence of a breakthrough in the recent meeting.
