A wider conflict in Iran would almost certainly embolden militant groups across the border, further destabilizing Pakistan's already fragile security environment. Economically, the consequences are even more severe, as Pakistan heavily depends on oil flowing through the Strait of Hormuz. In 2025, it signed a strategic defense pact with Saudi Arabia, deepening its role as a security interlocutor in the Gulf. It is crucial to highlight that Pakistan had already played this role before, as over the last decade, it contributed to mediating talks between Saudi Arabia and Iran and facilitated dialogue between Afghanistan and the United States.
Broad international support Pakistan's mediation efforts were also bolstered by broad international support: on March 29, it hosted a quadrilateral meeting with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey, who expressed their full backing for Pakistan's initiative to host peace talks between the US and Iran in Islamabad. Just two days later, the foreign ministers of China and Pakistan met in Beijing and issued a joint five-point proposal on the Middle East conflict, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the prompt start of peace talks, and the security of non-military targets. This diplomatic push helped generate a global momentum for de-escalation. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that China supports and expects Pakistan to play a unique and important role in easing the situation and resuming peace talks. This process is no easy task, and Pakistan's mediation efforts align with the common interests of all parties, Wang added.
According to a statement attributed to the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, this underscores the urgency of ending hostilities to protect civilian lives and alleviate human suffering. He expressed his sincere gratitude for the efforts of Pakistan and other countries that contributed to facilitating the ceasefire.
Experts and regional officials describe Pakistan as a mediator with a privileged position: with ties to both sides, a vested interest in de-escalation, and a track record of itinerant diplomacy that allowed it to defuse the regional conflict with global repercussions. Its rise raises a question: What makes Pakistan, a South Asian country, stand out to help end a conflict centered in the Middle East?
Mediator by necessity Pakistan's push for peace negotiation responds to the country's development needs, analysts noted: it shares a nearly 900-kilometer border with Iran and already faces a persistent insurgency from Baluch separatists on its western flank. The recent escalation spiked fuel prices, causing severe economic and energy shocks to the country. Beyond security and the economy, successful mediation offers Pakistan the chance to renew its image on the world stage. A successful deal, analysts believe, would strengthen its ties with Washington, Tehran, and Gulf Arab states while elevating its standing among South Asian nations, according to this Xinhua report citing the Argentine News Agency.
Diversified links What sets Pakistan apart is its ability to credibly dialogue with both sides because it maintains close ties with Iran, rooted in history, religious links, and border cooperation.
