DESPITE all the concerns, obstacles and the boycott of the meeting, the negotiating delegations managed to sit together and hold a lengthy session, thereby securing the future of the negotiations. It is quite clear that Israel does not want these negotiations, especially at a stage when Iran’s position is relatively strong. Pakistan had realized that as long as Netanyahu remained in the middle of the process, a settlement would not be possible.
However, separating Netanyahu from the United States and its decision-making process appeared to be nearly impossible. Historically, the United States has never concluded an agreement by setting aside Israel’s advice or, rather, its interests. Yet this became possible through the efforts of General Asim Munir, who convinced President Trump that supporting Israel under the current circumstances was not in anyone’s interest and could jeopardize global peace.
President Trump’s confidence in Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and General Asim Munir proved helpful throughout this process, a fact that was openly acknowledged by the US official in Switzerland. If examined closely, Pakistan’s mediation made several seemingly impossible developments possible on this sensitive issue: consensus between Iran’s hardline and moderate factions regarding the agreement, a ceasefire between Iran and the United States and a historic decline in Israel-US relations. For the first time, an American Administration made decisions while disregarding the influence of the Jewish lobby.
The recent ceasefire and negotiation process between the United States and Iran is being viewed as an important diplomatic success for Pakistan. Pakistan not only acted as a messenger between the parties but also assisted in preparing various ceasefire drafts and proposals. Rather than siding with any one party, Pakistan adopted a policy of dialogue and diplomacy, which enabled it to be accepted as a credible mediator. From an analytical perspective, Pakistan has sent a message to the world that it is not merely a country facing security challenges but also one capable of playing a constructive role in resolving regional and global conflicts. If this peace process succeeds, Pakistan’s international reputation, diplomatic importance and economic opportunities may also increase. The initiation of negotiations between the United States and Iran is undoubtedly a success for Pakistan, which remained actively engaged in efforts to stop the conflict. By agreeing to diplomacy, both American and Iranian leaders have acknowledged Pakistan’s role in promoting peace. The fundamental objective of Pakistan’s efforts for peace and security amid the US–Iran dispute is to move the region away from the cycle of war and into a framework of reconciliation, negotiations and political and diplomatic solutions. Through this role, our beloved country has helped humanity avert the threat of a global conflict. Iran and the United States are placing their trust in Pakistan only after witnessing the seriousness, cooperation and foresight of the current leadership.
The US Vice President’s statement that “before the Islamabad talks, it had never happened that the United States and Iran engaged in dialogue at this level” points toward the emergence of new strategic and diplomatic relationships at the regional level.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Faisalabad.
