Senator Lindsey Graham Challenges Pakistan's Role in Iran-USA Peace Talks
US Senator Lindsey Graham voiced strong skepticism on Tuesday regarding Pakistan's suitability as a neutral mediator in ongoing peace negotiations involving the Trump administration and Tehran. During a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing, Graham questioned whether Islamabad can maintain impartiality while simultaneously allegedly assisting the Iranian military.
Reports from CBS News indicate that Pakistan has allowed Iranian military aircraft to utilize its facilities, specifically citing the Nur Khan Air Base. According to officials familiar with the intelligence, this arrangement potentially shields Iranian assets from US airstrikes, complicating the regional security landscape amid the escalating Iran war tensions.
When pressed by Graham on the matter, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth declined to comment directly on the ongoing negotiations. This response prompted a sharp rebuke from the Senator, who declared that he holds zero trust in Pakistan's current stance. Graham suggested that if these reports are verified, the United States must immediately seek a different intermediary to facilitate dialogue.
The Senator emphasized that the perceived lack of progress in current diplomatic efforts is not surprising given these reports of behind-the-scenes military cooperation. He urged a formal reconsideration of Pakistan's status as a key interlocutor, noting that the presence of Iranian aircraft on Pakistani soil undermines the integrity of the peace process.
For the latest developments on the escalating regional conflict, follow our coverage here: Iran Us War Live updates
