Pakistan has earned international acclaim for its discreet yet impactful mediation during the recent tensions between the United States and Iran. A Turkish media outlet highlighted Islamabad as one of the few nations trusted by both Washington and Tehran amid a competitive regional landscape.
Pakistan’s approach was characterized by quiet, disciplined diplomacy at a time when multiple regional powers vied for influence in the Middle East. Central to this effort was Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir, who maintained continuous communication between the two adversaries through backchannel diplomacy during challenging circumstances.
The report described CDF Munir as a pragmatic leader whose strategy emphasized steady engagement over public spectacle. His diplomatic style was marked by consistency, predictability, and the persistence of dialogue even in moments of heightened tension. This approach not only reinforced Pakistan’s role in regional diplomacy but also enhanced Islamabad’s voice amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in West Asia.
Pakistan’s unique diplomatic position stems from its geography, military credibility, intelligence capabilities, and established ties with both the US and Iran. The country’s active relations with the US, China, Gulf states, Iran, and Türkiye enable it to maintain connections across rival camps without fully aligning with any single faction.
US public policy expert Laurie Watkins noted that Pakistan’s acceptability as an intermediary is largely due to its perceived neutrality. Former foreign minister Khurram Dastgir Khan added that countries gain significance when they become indispensable communication channels at critical moments, a role Pakistan currently fulfills amid competing powers.
Retired Lieutenant General Muhammad Saeed emphasized that the effectiveness of diplomacy should be measured by outcomes rather than visibility, highlighting CDF Munir’s focus on sustaining dialogue between the conflicting parties.
Furthermore, the report pointed to Pakistan’s enhanced regional standing following the 2025 military conflict with India, triggered by the Pahalgam incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. CDF Munir’s leadership during this conflict bolstered Pakistan’s strategic credibility in the region.
In addition, the Pakistan-Saudi Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement signed in September 2025 contributed to strengthening Pakistan’s regional position. However, the report underscored the necessity for Pakistan to address its economic challenges and political divisions to sustain and expand its growing diplomatic influence in the Middle East.
