The surprise country behind US-Iran ceasefire

Pakistan has emerged as a crucial diplomatic intermediary in last-minute negotiations that resulted in a two-week ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, offering a temporary pause in escalating tensions.

In the hours leading up to the announcement, early signs of progress began to surface from Islamabad, where intense backchannel discussions were underway. Sources familiar with the process revealed that negotiations were advancing “at pace,” with Pakistan playing a central role in facilitating communication between Washington and Tehran.

According to one insider, who was not directly part of the core negotiating team, the talks were being handled by “a very small circle,” reflecting the sensitivity and high stakes involved. The atmosphere surrounding the negotiations was described as “sombre and serious,” yet cautiously optimistic that a cessation of hostilities could be achieved.

Over the past several weeks, Pakistan has acted as a discreet go-between, relaying messages and proposals between both sides. Its longstanding relationship with Iran—anchored in shared geography and a history of close diplomatic ties—positioned it uniquely to assume this role. At the same time, Pakistan maintains strategic engagement with the United States, allowing it to navigate both sides of the divide.

On the American front, former President Donald Trump has previously expressed confidence in Pakistan’s military leadership, notably praising Asim Munir and suggesting he possesses deep insight into Iran’s strategic posture.

Despite these diplomatic efforts, uncertainty lingered late into the night. Field Marshal Asim Munir had earlier raised concerns about rising regional instability, warning that attacks on Saudi Arabia were undermining genuine attempts to resolve the crisis through peaceful dialogue.

After midnight, Pakistan’s prime minister signaled cautious progress, stating that “diplomatic efforts are progressing steadily, strongly and powerfully.” He also called for an extension of negotiation timelines and urged Iran to temporarily reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz to ease tensions.

Momentum continued to build when Reza Amiri Moghadam, Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, described developments as “a step forward from a critical, sensitive stage,” indicating growing alignment between the parties.

Shortly before dawn, Pakistan confirmed that a ceasefire agreement had been reached, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough. Islamabad subsequently invited both the United States and Iran to return for further talks on April 10, aimed at negotiating a more comprehensive and lasting agreement.

However, caution remains a defining feature of the situation. Sources close to the negotiations highlighted the “continued fragility” of the agreement, pointing to deep-seated mistrust and entrenched positions on both sides that could still threaten progress.

Pakistan’s success in brokering the temporary ceasefire underscores its strategic importance on the global diplomatic stage. By leveraging its geographic proximity to Iran, longstanding bilateral relationships, and active military and political engagement, Islamabad has positioned itself as a key player capable of facilitating dialogue in one of the world’s most volatile geopolitical conflicts.

The coming days will be critical in determining whether this fragile pause can evolve into a sustainable peace framework or merely serve as a brief respite in a protracted standoff.