Pakistan Faces High Stakes as It Positions Itself for US-Iran Talks

As Pakistan prepares to host a second round of peace talks despite uncertainty over whether they will go ahead security is being ramped up in Islamabad, with posters reading “Islamabad Talks” lining the streets of the capital.

The country is in a unique position, as it is trusted by the United States, Iran and Gulf nations, placing it at the centre of delicate diplomatic efforts.

However, Pakistan’s balancing act has been evident in recent tensions. Close ties with Washington did not stop Islamabad from officially condemning the first US-Israeli attacks on Iran. Similarly, when Iran targeted oil facilities in Saudi Arabia a key military ally Pakistan issued a strongly worded statement against Tehran.

The risks of mediation remain significant. If negotiations collapse, Pakistan could be drawn into conflict with neighbouring Iran, further complicating an already fragile regional situation.

The stakes are heightened by a mutual defence pact signed last year between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, one of the Gulf countries that has previously been targeted by Iranian drone strikes before the current ceasefire, which is due to expire tomorrow.

While the implications of the talks are global, the consequences are especially significant for Pakistan, where the outcome could shape its security, diplomacy and regional standing in profound ways.

BBC