Pakistan walks tightrope between US, Iran, and China after war mediation

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan faces growing international scrutiny after stepping into the middle of a major geopolitical conflict. The country now must balance competing demands from Washington, Tehran, Beijing, and key Gulf allies. A recent US media report has placed Pakistan’s mediation role under a spotlight. The report raises questions about how Islamabad will manage its relationships with all sides. Pakistan’s position is delicate. As a nuclear-armed state with deep ties to China and Saudi Arabia, it also maintains diplomatic channels with Iran and the United States. Any misstep could strain ties with one or more of these powerful players. The pressure comes as Pakistan seeks to assert itself as a regional mediator. But experts warn that the current conflict leaves little room for neutrality.