PAKISTAN’S behind-the-scenes mediation efforts are progressing well as reports in the international media suggest the United States and Iran might again sit across the table in Islamabad next week to sign a memorandum aimed at bringing an end to military hostilities and starting time-bound serious discussions on issues of divergence.
Both sides are working with mediators on a one-page, 14-point memorandum of understanding that would outline the framework for a month-long negotiation process. The draft is said to include discussions on Iran’s nuclear programme, easing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and the possible transfer of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpiles to another country. Pakistan has also expressed growing optimism that the United States and Iran could soon move towards a peace agreement after weeks of conflict and fragile ceasefire. The nature and extent of the proposed deal is explained by remarks of Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, who hoped that the parties will come to a peaceful, sustainable solution and bring peace, not just to our region but internationally as well.
The positive movement on the diplomatic front is reflective of the flexibility demonstrated by the two sides that augurs well for the peace process. The United States responded positively to several Pakistani suggestions meant at confidence building including continuation of the temporary ceasefire, halt of the Project Freedom that raised fears about resumption of the war and release of crew members of an Iranian-flagged container ship. Iran, despite its initial aversion to resumption of talks, also remained effectively engaged in indirect talks with the United States. Authentic version of the draft being exchanged by the two sides via Pakistani mediators is not available but reports indicate Tehran has shown flexibility on important issues, especially the fate of the enriched uranium. As against this, the United States is believed to be backtracking on its initial commitments and relying on the same old approach of pressuring and blackmailing. Iran has a justifiable case for nuclear technology, which has been strengthened by the uncalled for aggression against the country, but despite all this it is listening to the other side on the subject. This being so, the question arises as to why the United States is reluctant to lift all sanctions and release frozen assets that legitimately belong to Iran. The United States also wants to retain its leverage of the so-called Project Freedom despite the willingness of Iran to ease restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Shifting stance of the US on issues of vital importance to Iran could derail the entire peace process, therefore, Washington must respect the sensitivities of the Iranian people if it really cares for peace and stability. Similarly, the United States is in the habit of not treating its allies as sovereign partners and takes unilateral decisions on issues that have a direct bearing on allies. Latest example is the launch of Project Freedom, which was announced by President Donald Trump without consulting allies in the Gulf, who were reportedly surprised over the sudden move. Reports claim that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia suspended the US military’s access to its bases and airspace needed to support the mission. It has also been reported that a call between Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman did not resolve the disagreement, prompting the White House to pause the operation in order to restore access. It is because of unilateral policies of the United States that it stands almost isolated diplomatically after its invasion of Iran as even European allies did not respond to frantic calls by Washington to join the venture, which was initiated without consulting NATO allies.
