If a country is domestically stable, with economic vibrancy, good governance, and the rule of law, then it makes sense for it to engage in mediation to manage a crisis or conflict. Pakistan’s role in promoting peace in the Persian Gulf by serving as a mediator between the United States and Iran is commendable. However, in a situation where the country lacks political stability, its economy is in dire straits, and violence and terrorism are escalating in the restive provinces of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it does not make sense for Islamabad to involve itself in issues that are external in nature.

The growing schism in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), with the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) leading protests and demonstrations, particularly in Rawalakot, demanding the abolition of the 12 seats in the AJK Assembly reserved for refugees and relief for people in the form of cheaper energy, food, and other essential items, is another flashpoint.

Why did Pakistan involve itself in the Iran–United States conflict, and how did it achieve success in facilitating the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Tehran and Washington on a 60-day ceasefire and the launch of negotiations to resolve issues ranging from the nuclear programme to the Strait of Hormuz, the release of frozen assets, and the lifting of sanctions against Iran?

Certainly, the role played by Pakistan and Qatar in promoting peace in the Persian Gulf deserves appreciation, as it reflects how diplomacy can play a cogent role in averting the resumption of another phase of the Iran–United States war. One wonders who can mediate between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and between Pakistan and India, given that Islamabad remains in conflict with both countries.

Why did Pakistan, despite the complicated nature of Iran–United States relations and the high degree of mistrust between Tehran and Washington, choose to become involved in mediation and peace-making? Why does the Pakistani state disregard alarming domestic issues that threaten to destabilise the country's political and economic landscape?

In retrospect, Pakistan played a pivotal role in mending fences between Communist China and the United States when it facilitated the secret visit of the then American National Security........

© The Friday Times