London, United Kingdom – Web Desk: The United States exerted diplomatic pressure on Pakistan to help secure a ceasefire with Iran ahead of recent de-escalation efforts, according to a report by Financial Times.
The report said the administration of US President Donald Trump had been engaged in weeks of behind-the-scenes diplomacy, urging Islamabad to persuade Tehran to agree to a temporary truce.
While publicly maintaining a hardline stance against Iran, Washington was simultaneously working through diplomatic channels to reduce tensions and reopen critical maritime routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistan reportedly played a key mediating role, leveraging its position as a neighboring Muslim-majority country to facilitate dialogue with Iran. Sources cited in the report indicated that backchannel diplomacy led by Asim Munir contributed significantly to the breakthrough.
The diplomatic efforts culminated in the announcement of a two-week ceasefire involving the United States, Iran, and Israel, which has been widely seen as a major step toward easing regional tensions.
According to the report, just hours before the agreement, President Trump had issued strong warnings against Iran, including threats targeting key infrastructure. However, rising oil prices and unexpected resistance from Tehran reportedly pushed Washington toward seeking a ceasefire as early as March.
Analysts say the development highlights a contrast between public rhetoric and private diplomacy, with Pakistan emerging as a pivotal player in efforts to stabilize the region.
