Pakistan’s west Asia conflict diplomacy: How did ties with Donald Trump help Islamabad secure a role in US-Iran talks? Details here

Pakistan is positioning itself as a mediator in the West Asia conflict, taking on a role between the United States and Iran. This development is notable given Pakistan’s nuclear status, its lack of formal recognition of Israel, and its historically strained ties with Washington. Despite these factors, it has moved into a visible diplomatic position.

This change reflects a recalibration in foreign policy, shaped partly by alignment with Donald Trump and his transactional approach to international relations. The shift raises questions about how Pakistan has managed to transition into this role.

Relations between Pakistan and Trump were initially tense. During his first term, Trump accused Pakistan of providing “nothing but lies and deceit.” Over time, however, Islamabad made efforts to rebuild engagement. According to The Washington Post, this included a focused diplomatic outreach over the past year.

Former Senate Defence Committee chairman Mushahid Hussain Syed stated that Pakistan understood Trump’s style, saying, “We read him right.” He added, “We delivered, and we delivered big time,” outlining the “three C’s: crypto, critical minerals and counterterrorism.”

Officials also point to cooperation in tracking a suspect linked to the 2021 Kabul airport attack as an early step in rebuilding trust. Additional symbolic gestures included publicly crediting Trump for a ceasefire with India, nominating him for the Nobel Peace Prize, and joining his “Board of Peace.” Trump, in response, referred to Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir as his “favourite field marshal.”

This engagement has led to Pakistan hosting discussions aimed at reducing tensions between Washington and Tehran. Its role is primarily that of a facilitator, using its working relationships with both sides. Analysts note that Pakistan’s nuclear capability and geographic position contribute to its influence.

With regional instability increasing, maintaining communication channels with both countries has made Islamabad a useful intermediary. Its involvement highlights how strategic positioning can create diplomatic opportunities even for countries with complex relationships.

While Pakistan’s international role is expanding, it faces significant challenges at home. The country is dealing with an economic crisis marked by rising fuel prices, currency depreciation, and reliance on external financial assistance. The Iran conflict has added further strain.

More than 90% of Pakistan’s fuel imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, making it vulnerable to disruptions. These pressures have forced the government to use reserves and increase fuel prices. The situation has also led to unrest, including violent protests following the killing of Iran’s supreme leader in US-Israeli strikes earlier this year. These domestic issues contrast with Pakistan’s growing diplomatic visibility.

Analysts remain divided on Pakistan’s intentions. Some argue that the country’s diplomatic efforts are influenced by internal political needs as much as by peacemaking goals. Strengthening its global profile may also support domestic authority during a period of economic and political pressure.

Others question the long-term benefits of agreements with the United States, particularly in sectors such as critical minerals and cryptocurrency. Concerns remain about whether these initiatives will produce tangible economic outcomes.

Pakistan’s current position reflects a mix of strategic calculation and immediate necessity, leaving its long-term impact open to interpretation.

Pakistan’s mediation role highlights strategic outreach, but economic challenges and uncertain outcomes raise questions about the sustainability of its diplomatic approach.