Opinion: Opinion | Pakistan's Iran Problem Isn't Going Anywhere
This opinion piece explores the strained diplomatic relationship between Pakistan and Iran amidst escalating tensions between the US and Tehran. It argues that Pakistan's role as a mediator has not fostered long-term strategic trust between the two neighboring nations.
Why it matters
Understanding the geopolitical dynamics between Pakistan and Iran is crucial for assessing stability in the Middle East and South Asia.
As fighting between the US and Iran returns to March 2026 levels, the Islamabad MoU that both sides signed on June 17-18 is under severe strain. Barring the possibility of ground operations in Iran by the US and its allies, both Washington and Tehran will inevitably return to the negotiating table, given the pressures on the global energy economy. While it remains to be seen how much the current fighting will force Washington to comply with the MoU's terms (especially vis-à-vis Hormuz), the MoU itself has a principal third signatory - the Prime Minister of Pakistan.
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