Former US President Donald Trump has once again acknowledged Pakistan’s significant leadership and diplomatic efforts in facilitating the recent Iran–US agreement. He emphasized Islamabad’s crucial role in bringing both parties to the negotiating table amid heightened regional tensions.
In an extensive interview with Axios, Trump reiterated his earlier commendations of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, highlighting their effective coordination and strong working relationship. He noted that Pakistan’s established connections with Iranian officials were instrumental in advancing the talks. Trump also expressed his fondness for the Pakistani people and confirmed that he acted on Islamabad’s request to prevent further escalation against Iran.
He described the broader Iran framework deal, which includes a temporary ceasefire and steps toward a long-term resolution, as a product of coordinated diplomatic efforts involving multiple regional stakeholders, including Pakistan.
Meanwhile, Trump expanded on global diplomacy by praising Chinese President Xi Jinping as a “strong and highly intelligent leader,” while acknowledging that US-China relations remain competitive yet functional. He also complimented French President Emmanuel Macron for hosting recent international summits, though he expressed skepticism about Macron’s political longevity.
In a notable anecdote from the G7 summit, Trump recalled jokingly referring to himself as “the boss” during a leaders’ meeting. He insisted the comment was made in jest but claimed it was exaggerated by the media.
Regarding foreign policy, Trump asserted that his administration handled the Iran situation firmly, preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He reiterated his opposition to deploying US ground forces but defended previous military actions against Iranian targets, including the killing of senior commander Qassem Soleimani.
He further claimed that his administration played a role in averting wider conflicts, including tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors Pakistan and India, through US diplomatic pressure.
Turning to economic matters, Trump stated that US markets remained robust under his policies, crediting his administration with military strengthening and job creation. He criticized prior US leadership for allowing global adversaries to become more aggressive.
On the Iran framework deal, Trump observed that oil prices were already responding positively to reduced tensions and expressed confidence that Congress would support the emerging agreement. He added that global energy markets were stabilizing as maritime risks in key shipping lanes diminished.
The interview also touched on domestic politics, where Trump claimed he remains in a strong position for upcoming elections, asserting he could defeat opponents by a wide margin.
