Pakistan plays pivotal role in Iran-US mediation, pushes for negotiated settlement
Islamabad: Sardar Masood Khan, former president of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, has stated that the ongoing Iran–US crisis has reached a critical juncture where both sides are under intense military, economic and political pressure, making a negotiated settlement inevitable but complex.
According to Kashmir Media Service, in a statement in Islamabad, Sardar Masood Khan noted that despite the absence of formal face-to-face dialogue, sustained backchannel communication between Iran and the US, indicate that diplomacy remains active, albeit indirect. He emphasized that Pakistan has emerged as a credible and trusted intermediary, with Iran expressing reservations about direct engagement with the United States.
He underscored that both countries are incurring heavy costs. Iran’s economy has been severely impacted due to the blockade of its ports and disruption of oil exports, while global markets are experiencing volatility, with oil prices surging sharply. He added that the crisis is no longer confined to bilateral tensions but has become a global economic concern affecting energy security and financial stability.
Sardar Masood Khan pointed out that Iran’s proposal seeks a synchronized resolution—calling for the simultaneous removal of blockades and lifting of economic sanctions before progressing to more complex issues such as the nuclear programme. He noted that while initial reactions from Washington suggest hesitation, the absence of outright rejection signals that the proposal is under serious consideration.
He further explained that both sides are gradually moving toward a “middle ground,” where sequencing, guarantees, and verification mechanisms—potentially involving international stakeholders—will be key. However, he cautioned that domestic political pressures in the United States and strategic constraints in Iran continue to shape negotiating positions.
He concluded that the path to peace lies in calibrated, simultaneous concessions and sustained mediation, with Pakistan continuing to play a pivotal role in bridging gaps and steering both sides toward a negotiated settlement.
