PAKISTAN PERSPECTIVE

Pakistan finds itself in an extraordinary geopolitical position: active mediator between Tehran and Washington in a crisis that directly affects it — volatile energy markets weigh heavily on an already fragile Pakistani economy. Pakistan's UN ambassador, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, has called on the Security Council to exercise restraint and pursue diplomacy, warning that crises spanning Gaza to Hormuz are interconnected and could trigger catastrophic ripple effects.

Dawn reveals details of intense diplomatic efforts: Iran is expected to submit a new proposal to Washington, transmitted through Islamabad. The Iranian envoy praised Pakistan's "sustained" efforts in preparing the ground for dialogue. This public recognition places Pakistan in a delicate position: too visible as mediator, and Islamabad risks losing Washington's confidence, which prefers discreet channels.

Pakistani media also cover the economic impact: Asian markets fluctuate, oil prices rise, and each day without agreement strains Pakistan's hydrocarbon imports. For Islamabad, the Hormuz crisis represents a rare diplomatic opportunity — being the essential conduit between two opposing powers — but also daily economic pressure.