Iranian MP Criticises Pakistan’s Role As Mediator In US-Iran Negotiations

An Iranian lawmaker has raised sharp questions over Pakistan’s credibility as a mediator in ongoing diplomatic efforts between Tehran and Washington to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East. The remarks come amid continuing efforts by regional and global actors to find a pathway toward ending the prolonged conflict and stabilising sensitive geopolitical flashpoints.

Ebrahim Rezaei, spokesperson for Iran’s National Security and Foreign Policy Commission and representative of Dashtestan, said Pakistan may be a “good friend and neighbour” but is not a reliable intermediary. In a post on X, he argued that Islamabad lacks neutrality and tends to align its diplomatic stance with the interests of the United States, making it unsuitable for sensitive negotiations between Iran and Washington.

Rezaei further alleged that Pakistan has not publicly criticised the United States in situations where it failed to meet commitments. He cited examples including issues related to Lebanon and frozen or blocked Iranian assets. According to him, a credible mediator must maintain strict impartiality and be willing to hold all parties accountable, rather than leaning toward one side during negotiations.

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The Iranian lawmaker also claimed that Pakistan avoids highlighting instances where the US allegedly reversed earlier commitments made during diplomatic discussions. He said such behaviour weakens trust in Islamabad’s ability to act as an honest broker in international mediation efforts, especially in disputes involving high-stakes political and security concerns.

These remarks come as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi continues diplomatic engagements with regional mediators, including visits to Pakistan and Oman, before travelling to Russia. Discussions are reportedly ongoing over several contentious issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme and strategic access through the Strait of Hormuz, although significant gaps remain between the negotiating parties.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has stated that Iran can directly initiate contact if it wishes to pursue negotiations. He reiterated that any agreement would require Iran to forgo nuclear weapons development. Although a ceasefire has temporarily eased large-scale hostilities following strikes earlier in the conflict, no comprehensive settlement has been reached, leaving regional tensions and global economic concerns unresolved.

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