US intelligence has expressed concerns about Pakistan’s role in peace negotiations due to revelations that the country’s top intermediary has stronger ties to Iran than previously known.
Pakistan’s military leader Asim Munir, praised by US President Donald Trump, has connections to two prominent Iranian military figures targeted by the US. These include Major General Qasem Solemeini, former head of the Quds Force, and former military chief Hossein Salami.
It has been uncovered that Munir had developed close relationships with these individuals, posing a potential threat to the US. Iran suspects that the delay in peace talks is a tactic to allow the US to bolster its military presence in the region further.
Against a backdrop of heightened tensions in the Gulf, three vessels were attacked with Tehran’s backing, leading to the seizure of two ships escorted back to Iran.
One source emphasized the need for impartiality in the peace negotiations, given Munir’s affiliations with the IRGC and the Quds force, suggesting bias that might favor Iran’s interests.
The peace talks in Pakistan have been halted, with US Vice President JD Vance postponing a trip to Islamabad. President Trump extended the ceasefire deadline, citing requests from Munir and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to hold off on military action against Iran until a peace proposal is presented.
The Gulf region remains on edge as Iran’s IRGC targeted ships, including the Epaminondas and Euphoria, causing damage to vessels and escalating tensions in the region. The MSC Francesca was also attacked off the Iranian coast, with fears that the Houthis in Yemen could be emboldened to join the conflict.
The ongoing conflict with Iran, now in its seventh week, has spilled over to Lebanon, impacting a fragile ceasefire agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reluctantly agreed to the ceasefire at Trump’s urging, with the IDF focusing on neutralizing Hezbollah’s leadership and military capabilities.
At Reach and our partner entities, we use cookies and device identifiers to enhance site experience, analyze usage patterns, and deliver personalized ads. You can manage your data preferences by opting out of data sharing or sales through the provided options on our website. Your use of our services indicates acceptance of cookie usage and adherence to our Privacy Notice and Terms and Conditions.