New Delhi, April 10: Former soldiers in India mocked reports on Friday claiming that Pakistan mediated a ceasefire between the United States and Iran. They raised doubts about Pakistan’s involvement in such a complex and multifaceted conflict, citing the poor bilateral relations between Israel and Pakistan.
The veterans argued that Pakistan misrepresented the discussions between the US and Iran, exaggerating the situation. Following a two-week temporary ceasefire agreement, US President Donald Trump stated that he made the decision based on conversations with Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir.
Trump also mentioned that Pakistan had requested a halt to the destructive actions being directed towards Iran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi hinted that Tehran accepted the agreement in response to Prime Minister Sharif’s “brotherly request,” raising questions about Pakistan’s effectiveness and credibility.
Retired Captain Anil Gaur expressed skepticism, stating that Pakistan was not acting as an honest mediator. He accused Pakistan of failing to convey the correct and complete message between the US and Iran, leading to misunderstandings.
The role of a mediator is crucial, as they must clearly communicate all terms and discussions between both parties to ensure that negotiations can proceed on a solid foundation. Gaur also referenced the strained relations between Israel and Pakistan, noting that a past social media post by Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, which contained anti-Israel remarks, exacerbates the situation.
Israel’s ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, also questioned Pakistan’s mediating role, stating that Tel Aviv does not consider Pakistan a “reliable party.” Gaur accused Pakistan of acting solely for its own benefit and trying to overstate its importance, suggesting that Pakistan is merely attempting to align itself closer to the US.
He provided an example of a draft social media post by Shahbaz Sharif that initially included the phrase “Draft – Pakistan PM message,” raising questions about who actually prepared the message.
Retired Commodore Uday remarked that calling Pakistan a “peacemaker” would be inaccurate; rather, it should be referred to as a “facilitator” or “supporting party.” He emphasized that the primary parties in this dialogue are the US and Iran, while Israel is not involved and has expressed objections to Pakistan’s role.
In a humorous tone, he wished Pakistan luck in its discussions about the Nobel Prize, adding that President Trump also harbors aspirations for the award. He cautioned that, considering Israel’s role, it is difficult to be overly optimistic about the outcomes of these negotiations.
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