Pakistan Emerges as Key Mediator in Iran Conflict Amid US-Israeli Strikes

• •Pakistan has become a key mediator in the Iran conflict, surprising many observers.
• •India's alignment with the US-Israeli camp has not translated into diplomatic leverage.
• •The Pakistani military's swift and unified messaging has been crucial in its diplomatic role.

Pakistan has unexpectedly become a crucial mediator in the ongoing Iran conflict, positioning itself as a backchannel for the US to communicate with Tehran. This development comes as India has aligned itself with the US-Israeli coalition but has struggled to gain diplomatic leverage. Pakistan's geographical location, intelligence capabilities, and historical ties with Iran have facilitated its role as a mediator. Following the initial US-Israeli strikes, Pakistan quickly established itself as the only nation capable of engaging with all relevant parties, including Washington, Tehran, Riyadh, and Doha. The Pakistani military's clear messaging has resonated with US officials, who prefer to avoid direct engagement with Iran. This diplomatic maneuvering aligns with Pakistan's historical adaptability in foreign policy, often portraying itself as a victim of terrorism while securing international support. In contrast, India's cautious approach has drawn criticism domestically, with officials defending their stance against accusations of being mere brokers in international affairs.