Former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and former Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, China, and the United Nations, Sardar Masood Khan, in a statement today, termed the recent extension of the ceasefire between the US and Iran as a “breath of fresh air” for the world, which was on the brink of a devastating conflict.
Mr. Khan emphasized that intense military tension and economic pressure had pushed the region towards another devastating war before this diplomatic breakthrough.
He highlighted the historic nature of Pakistan’s intervention, stating that it is the first time a country like Pakistan has successfully mediated and bridged important global powers in active regional and international conflicts.
According to the former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Islamabad’s timely and proactive diplomatic measures played a crucial role in de-escalating the tense situation and extending the duration of the ceasefire.
He particularly highlighted Pakistan’s “last-minute diplomatic intervention,” which included crucial advice for the extension of the ceasefire, proving to be a decisive factor in stabilizing the volatile environment.
Despite initial reservations, US President Donald Trump ultimately agreed to the extension of the ceasefire, thus opening opportunities for constructive dialogue, Mr. Khan revealed.
He described Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts as the beginning of a new chapter in international relations, asserting that the nation’s role in negotiations between global and regional key players represents an unprecedented historical development in traditional diplomacy.
Pakistan achieved this distinguished position through continuous diplomatic dialogue and confidence-building with various international capitals, including Washington, Tehran, Beijing, Moscow, and important European and Gulf partners, he added.
Sardar Masood Khan pointed out that traditional mediators and established institutions, such as the United Nations, largely remained inactive during this important process, further highlighting Pakistan’s unique and prominent contribution.
Addressing the regional context, he stated that both parties resorted to military threats and financial measures to exert pressure.
He acknowledged Iran’s strategic patience, which it maintained despite severe threats, US naval blockades, and ship seizures, standing firm on its position.
He described the current phase of diplomacy as unconventional, with the decision-making process in Washington rapidly becoming centralized and often disseminated through direct public statements, thus adding uncertainty to global markets and the strategic landscape.
Going forward, Mr. Khan suggested that confidence-building measures, such as ending blockades and guaranteeing freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, are crucial for the re-establishment of mutual trust.
He identified key obstacles for upcoming negotiations, including entrenched mutual distrust, conflicting strategic objectives, and internal political pressures within the respective nations.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment, he confirmed that Islamabad will continue to play an active role in fostering and advancing the ongoing dialogue process.
He warned that if these facilitative efforts fail, it would be a collective failure of the entire international community, not just one nation.
In conclusion, Sardar Masood Khan expressed hope that continuous diplomatic efforts can transform the current ceasefire into lasting peace.
He expressed confidence in this process, stating that it will further solidify Pakistan’s position as a force for mediation and stability in global affairs.