Washington, May 12: Pakistan has been attempting to enhance its international image by presenting itself as a mediator between the United States and Iran. However, officials from both countries have raised questions about Pakistan’s role.
Recently, US media revealed that while Pakistan positioned itself as a mediator, it allowed Iranian military aircraft to be stationed at its airfields to protect them from potential American strikes. This revelation has drawn scrutiny from US Senator Lindsey Graham, a close ally of former President Trump.
In a post on the social media platform X, Senator Graham questioned Pakistan’s role in mediating between Iran and the US, stating, “If this report is accurate, there needs to be a complete review of Pakistan’s role as a mediator among Iran, the US, and other parties.”
He added, “Given previous statements from Pakistani defense officials regarding Israel, I wouldn’t be surprised if this turns out to be true.”
CBS News reported that Pakistani officials had presented themselves as a diplomatic intermediary between Tehran and Washington while quietly allowing Iranian military planes to park at their airfields to avoid potential US airstrikes.
According to US media, Iran also sent some civilian aircraft to neighboring Afghanistan for parking. Two officials informed CBS News that it remains unclear whether military aircraft were included in this group.
US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity regarding national security matters, noted that shortly after President Trump announced a ceasefire with Iran in early April, Tehran sent several aircraft to Pakistan’s Noor Khan Air Force Base. This base is a strategic military site located outside the garrison city of Rawalpindi.
Among these aircraft was an RC-130 from the Iranian Air Force, a reconnaissance variant of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules tactical transport aircraft.
Given Pakistan’s history, such allegations are not surprising. Questions about Pakistan’s role arose during the 9/11 attacks, as the US suspected that Osama bin Laden, the mastermind behind the attacks, was sheltered by Pakistan. However, Pakistan has consistently denied these claims. The US ultimately killed bin Laden in a covert operation in Pakistan on May 2, 2011, which strained relations between the two nations.
A former Pentagon official recently echoed similar sentiments, stating that while relations between Pakistan and the US may have improved during the Trump administration, trust in Pakistan will not be restored under any future government, nor will it feel compelled to fulfill any promises made by Munir.
Additionally, Iran has also questioned Pakistan’s role as a mediator.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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