Pakistan Pushes to Host US-Iran Peace Talks Amid War Tensions

Pakistan has emerged as an unlikely mediator in the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran. The country is actively working to bring both sides to the negotiating table, though it remains unclear whether the promised peace talks will actually happen.

Pakistan has several advantages as a potential peacemaker. About 15-20% of its population is Shia Muslim, the same branch of Islam that dominates Iran. Thousands of Pakistanis travel to Iran each year for religious pilgrimages. The country also shares a border with Iran and has maintained relationships with both Tehran and Washington.

Pakistan sees itself as a leader in the Muslim world and has used its connections to former President Trump to gain access to American decision-makers. According to international relations experts, successful mediators need "reliability, impartiality, consistency, restraint and deliverables."

The ceasefire between the US and Iran is under growing strain. Whether both countries will actually show up for talks remains uncertain as Saturday approaches.