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What will Pakistan, the key mediator in the US–Iran talks, gain beyond 'thanks and appreciation”?

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Pakistan has played an important role as a mediator or facilitator in backchannel and diplomatic communication between the United States and Iran, and this role has been widely praised internationally by both sides. In this context, the question arises: beyond a simple “thank you” or formal appreciation, can Pakistan expect potential political and diplomatic gains in return? Pakistani anchor and journalist, Makhdoom Shahab-ud-Din, discusses this in the podcast.


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Presented by Rehan Alavi

Source: SBS



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Pakistan has played an important role as a mediator or facilitator in backchannel and diplomatic communication between the United States and Iran, and this role has been widely praised internationally by both sides. In this context, the question arises: beyond a simple “thank you” or formal appreciation, can Pakistan expect potential political and diplomatic gains in return? Pakistani anchor and journalist, Makhdoom Shahab-ud-Din, discusses this in the podcast.


“Pakistan has been excellent. The Field Marshal and the Prime Minister of Pakistan have performed exceptionally well.”

During the Iran–US negotiations, such appreciative remarks by Donald Trump were frequently circulated, and several other global leaders also praised Pakistan’s role during the Iran crisis. But beyond these words of appreciation, what real benefits can Pakistan gain from this mediation?

According to Makhdoom Shahab-ud-Din, Pakistan may not immediately receive a major “reward,” but diplomatic credit, an enhanced global reputation, a softer economic outlook, and increased regional influence could be its real assets.

However, many analysts argue that the key question remains whether Islamabad can turn this opportunity into a long-term strategic advantage or not.

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