HOUSTON: Pakistan is playing a key behind-the-scenes role in facilitating potential negotiations between Iran and the United States, while deep mistrust between the two sides continues to hinder progress, according to an analysis by World Watch Alert Editor-in-Chief Asif Ali Bhatti.
Speaking on the evolving situation, Bhatti said that although public statements suggest ongoing diplomatic engagement, ground realities indicate otherwise, with tensions in the region remaining high.
He highlighted that General Syed Asim Munir has emerged as a central figure in diplomatic efforts, working to ease pressure on Iran and help pave the way for a possible ceasefire through backchannel engagements.
The analyst added that countries such as Egypt and Türkiye are also involved in mediation efforts. However, a lack of trust persists, particularly due to past incidents where negotiations coincided with strikes on Iran, undermining confidence between the parties.
Bhatti questioned US policy, noting that if Donald Trump and his administration are genuinely pursuing negotiations, the deployment of additional American rapid-response forces in the Middle East appears contradictory and could further escalate tensions.
He also referred to emerging reports about the possible formation of an international force to secure the Strait of Hormuz, as well as concerns over potential US moves related to Kharg Island, warning that such developments could trigger a new phase of crisis in the region.
According to the analysis, the scale of destruction caused by the conflict over the past month could take at least a decade to repair, reflecting the severity of the situation.
Bhatti further said that the US administration is facing mounting pressure as the conflict prolongs beyond expectations. Additional funding is reportedly being sought from Congress, while the war is also imposing significant economic costs on the United States.
He noted that Middle Eastern countries are increasingly unable to sustain the ongoing crisis, leading to growing calls for an immediate ceasefire across the region.