Pakistan permitted Iranian military aircraft to use its airports even as Islamabad served as a mediator in negotiations between the United States and Iran, according to CBS News reporting. The dual role has drawn scrutiny from Washington, which has relied on Pakistani channels to relay messages during the recent conflict.
Islamabad has publicly emphasized its neutrality and desire to reduce regional escalation, yet the reported basing arrangement suggests deeper security ties with Tehran. U.S. officials have not fully detailed how the arrangement affects ongoing diplomacy or intelligence sharing.
Analysts said Pakistan’s position reflects competing pressures between its partnership with Gulf allies, economic ties to China and historical links to Iran. The revelations may complicate trust-building in trilateral discussions aimed at securing the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistani diplomats have continued facilitating dialogue while avoiding public comment on specific military access agreements. Observers noted that serving simultaneously as mediator and host to Iranian aircraft creates diplomatic tension with partners seeking a unified approach to Gulf security.
CBS News reported the airport access arrangement occurred while Pakistan was actively mediating between Washington and Tehran. The juxtaposition has raised questions in U.S. policy circles about Islamabad’s ability to maintain credibility with all parties to the Gulf conflict.
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Sources:
https://nato.news-pravda.com/world/2026/05/24/104908.html