US President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that he does not intend to reconsider Pakistan’s role as a mediator in the ongoing conflict with Iran, despite remarks from Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican ally, expressing distrust towards Islamabad. Senator Graham recently cited a report claiming that Pakistan allowed Iranian military aircraft to be stationed on its airfields, allegedly shielding them from potential US air strikes.
Pakistan has clarified that both US and Iranian aircraft were temporarily stationed in Islamabad for logistical support related to ceasefire discussions. While some planes remained in the area in anticipation of further negotiations, Islamabad emphasized that this was not part of any “preservation arrangement.” Senator Graham, speaking at a Senate Appropriations Committee’s defense subcommittee, expressed skepticism, stating, “I don’t trust Pakistan as far as I can throw them.” He suggested that if Pakistan indeed safeguarded Iranian military assets, the US should consider another mediator.
Despite these concerns, President Trump dismissed the idea of reevaluating Pakistan’s mediation role when questioned by reporters. “No, they’re great,” he responded, praising the efforts of Pakistan’s leadership. He specifically commended Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for their cooperation and support in the mediation process.
In response to inquiries, Pakistan’s embassy in Washington redirected questions to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ministry issued a statement clarifying that the Iranian aircraft currently in Pakistan had arrived during the ceasefire period and were not part of any military contingency or preservation agreement, labeling contrary assertions as speculative and misleading.
Reports citing unnamed US officials indicated that several Iranian aircraft were sent to Pakistan’s Nur Khan Air Force Base near Rawalpindi shortly after President Trump announced the ceasefire on April 7. However, Pakistan maintains that these aircraft’s presence is disconnected from any military or strategic arrangements.