Islamabad: Pakistan’s mediation efforts between the United States and Iran have significantly elevated its global diplomatic standing, according to Sardar Masood Khan, former Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, China, and the United Nations, and former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted Pakistan’s role in hosting initial talks and facilitating backchannel diplomacy leading to a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at resolving longstanding hostilities.

According to President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Sardar Masood Khan, Pakistan’s diplomatic achievement is unprecedented, as it successfully brought together two adversaries that had remained hostile for nearly five decades. He noted that Islamabad hosted the first face-to-face talks between Washington and Tehran, followed by sustained backchannel diplomacy that ultimately resulted in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at ending hostilities and launching a structured process for a broader political settlement.

Sardar Masood Khan emphasized Pakistan’s intervention when differences arose post-agreement, particularly regarding developments on the Lebanese front. Pakistan, in collaboration with Qatar, facilitated emergency consultations to maintain the diplomatic momentum. He noted the crucial role of Pakistan’s civil and military leadership, especially emphasizing the coordination between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.

The acknowledgment by United States Vice President J.D. Vance of Field Marshal Asim Munir’s contribution further underscores Pakistan’s constructive role in the negotiations. Sardar Masood Khan pointed out that Pakistan’s efforts resulted in earning a reputation as a credible mediator, positioning the country as a key player in international diplomacy traditionally dominated by major world powers.

He concluded by suggesting that Pakistan should capitalize on this diplomatic achievement to institutionalize its role as a regional peacemaker, enhancing its strategic and economic ties in the Gulf and broader Middle East region.