A win-win opening for Tehran, Islamabad amid regional tensions
Contrary to the common view that Pakistan’s recent moves are purely regional mediation, there are signs Islamabad’s role is less independent and more aligned with broader strategic designs. In an interview with Iran Daily, former Iranian ambassador to Pakistan Mashallah Shakeri sheds light on the less visible dimensions of this role, pointing to energy dependencies, geopolitical considerations, and Pakistan’s efforts to maintain a balance among the United States, China, and regional actors. A role that, if sustained, could also open the door to progress in Tehran–Islamabad relations, particularly in areas such as energy and transit corridors.
IRAN DAILY: Why has Pakistan been so active at this particular juncture in interactions among Iran, the United States, and other countries?
SHAKERI: Pakistan views itself on several levels as one of the key entry points in managing the crisis that has taken shape in the Persian Gulf region. First is its neighborhood with Iran, which naturally creates a sense of responsibility and affinity. As seen previously, Oman has stepped in, and Turkey has also signaled its willingness to play a role.
The second point is the degree to which Pakistan is affected by ongoing developments in the region. While many countries have been impacted by the current situation, Pakistan’s heavy reliance on Persian Gulf energy resources—particularly oil and gas—has significantly driven up its economic costs.
The third factor is the social and economic fallout of this crisis on Pakistani society, which, as in many other countries, has been considerable, though more pronounced in Pakistan due to certain structural vulnerabilities.
However, the most important factor can be traced to Pakistan being chosen by the United States. In August last year, Asim Munir traveled to Washington and met with US president Donald Trump, who noted, as reported by media, that Pakistanis have a better understanding of Iranians than many other countries. This remark can be interpreted as signaling an expectation or indirect request for Pakistan to play a role in this equation.
Following subsequent developments, the United States appears to have identified a degree of alignment and readiness within Pakistan’s governing institutions—particularly its military—and has accordingly reached out to Islamabad to help manage and steer the situation out of its current state. Pakistan, in turn, appears to have taken on a sense of responsibility in this regard.
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