The conflict in the Middle East has entered a deeply worrying phase. What began as another confrontation in a region accustomed to instability now carries consequences far beyond the borders of the countries directly involved. Energy security, food security, climate security and the frightening possibility of a wider nuclear confrontation have all become part of the conversation. At a time when the international community is searching for avenues to prevent further escalation, attention is naturally focused on Washington and Tehran. Yet Islamabad has constantly been trying to create space for diplomacy.

Pakistan's efforts are important not because Islamabad can single-handedly resolve a conflict of such complexity, but because it possesses something increasingly valuable in international diplomacy: access to different sides.

The first meeting between American and Iranian representatives in Islamabad in April 2026 after years of limited direct engagement was therefore significant. Although, it did not produce an agreement, it did start the dialogue. Diplomacy is often measured not only by the agreements it produces, but also by the conversations it keeps alive. Islamabad was able to provide a useful diplomatic channel when direct communication became difficult.

Pakistan is unusually positioned for this role due to five factors.

The first is geography combined with history. Pakistan shares a long border with Iran and has decades of experience managing a complicated relationship with its western neighbour. At the same time, Islamabad has maintained a longstanding relationship........

© The Express Tribune