A senior Pakistani diplomat has warned that despite speculation that the United States is seeking an exit from its ongoing conflict with Iran, the American defense establishment is preparing for a prolonged confrontation, but Pakistan is being heard in Washington, Riyadh, and Tehran.
Former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Sardar Masood Khan said in a statement today that although US President Donald Trump could declare a political victory at any time, activities on the ground suggest the opposite of an immediate end to hostilities.
He detailed that additional US military deployments, the movement of naval fleets, and the mobilization of Marine forces indicate an escalation rather than a conclusion to the conflict.
According to Mr. Khan, the initial objectives set by Washington, which included compelling Iran to surrender or bringing about a change in its system of government, have not been achieved.
Concurrently, global pressure to avert a war is mounting as its economic consequences are impacting global markets. Mr. Khan, a former ambassador to the US and the United Nations, pointed out that rising oil and gas prices are causing economic instability, a situation that has strategically benefited Russia and concerned European nations worried about broader geopolitical implications.
Despite the military posturing, Mr. Khan confirmed that back-channel diplomatic contacts are ongoing. He identified the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman as key facilitators of quiet diplomacy, in addition to other international media and diplomatic channels working to de-escalate tensions.
Highlighting Pakistan’s active engagement, he stated that Islamabad is playing a constructive diplomatic role and is in contact with key global capitals, including Washington, Tehran, and Riyadh, to de-escalate the situation. He said that Pakistan is trusted in these capitals and is facilitating communication between the parties.
Mr. Khan drew parallels to US interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan, warning that the deployment of ground forces could prolong the conflict for several years, even if initial military objectives are achieved quickly.
As an alternative to military confrontation, he proposed a more sustainable solution through an effective system of international oversight, suggesting that the International Atomic Energy Agency could resume inspections of Iran’s nuclear facilities, including the centers at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
He issued a stern warning that any attack on Iran’s major oil installations, particularly those on Kharg Island, which handle the majority of the country’s oil exports, could dramatically escalate the conflict and destabilize the entire region.
Mr. Khan observed that the Gulf countries are currently focusing on defensive measures, such as missile defense and the protection of their airspace, and there are no clear indications of their direct involvement in offensive actions against Iran.
He affirmed that Pakistan’s diplomacy is guided by the principles of the UN Charter and is being conducted in consultation with regional partners, including Oman and Saudi Arabia, to promote de-escalation and ensure regional stability.
Mr. Khan concluded that Pakistan will maintain its balanced and cautious diplomatic strategy to contribute to peace efforts and effectively navigate the strategic and economic challenges arising from the conflict.