POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
Shehbaz Sharif discusses mediation with Kuwait crown prince, gains backing for US-Iran peace efforts
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday held a phone conversation with Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al Khaled Al Hamad Al Sabah, who expressed full support for Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to mediate between the United States and Iran amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Shehbaz Sharif briefed the Kuwaiti leadership on Pakistan’s ongoing initiatives aimed at de-escalating the regional crisis and facilitating dialogue to end the conflict.
During the call, the prime minister strongly condemned recent attacks on Kuwait and conveyed Pakistan’s solidarity with its leadership and people. He also offered condolences over the loss of lives and prayers for the swift recovery of those injured.
In response, Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al Khaled Al Hamad Al Sabah appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role and fully endorsed its mediation efforts between the United States and Iran.
The crown prince also thanked Pakistan for its continued support during the ongoing crisis and acknowledged a recent message of solidarity sent by the prime minister. He further expressed his desire to visit Pakistan once the regional situation stabilises.
Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to playing a positive and constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the region.
Pakistan’s growing diplomatic role
The development comes as Pakistan has taken a central role in facilitating indirect communication between Washington and Tehran. The mediation effort is being carried out in coordination with Turkiye and Egypt.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar recently confirmed that indirect talks between the US and Iran are ongoing through structured message exchanges facilitated by Pakistan. He revealed that a 15-point framework from the US side has been shared and is currently under consideration by Iran.
Islamabad has also emerged as a potential venue for initial engagement between the two sides, according to diplomatic sources, despite significant differences remaining.
Security and military channels have also played a role in sustaining communication. Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff, has reportedly maintained contact with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, relaying positions between Tehran and Washington.
Iranian officials are said to view Pakistan’s involvement favourably, citing its relatively balanced stance during the crisis and its reputation as a reliable partner. Additionally, Asim Munir’s reported rapport with former US President Donald Trump is seen as a factor that could help facilitate dialogue.
As tensions persist in the region, Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement continues to position it as a key intermediary in efforts to prevent further escalation and promote peaceful resolution.