Trump Defends Pakistan's Role in Iran Talks
President Donald Trump reaffirmed his trust in Pakistan’s role as a mediator in the ongoing talks with Iran, dismissing concerns raised by Senator Lindsey Graham. Trump praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan's Army Chief, General Asim Munir, calling them “absolutely great” for their efforts in facilitating diplomatic discussions between the United States and Iran. His comments came on May 12, as tensions rise over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Despite Graham's criticism that Iran may be hiding military assets in Pakistan, Trump maintained that the U.S. has not considered finding a new mediator. “The Pakistanis have been great. The field marshal and the prime minister of Pakistan have been absolutely great,” Trump told reporters during a press briefing, standing firm on his position. His defense of Pakistan stands in contrast to Graham's remarks, where he questioned Pakistan’s neutrality and suggested the need to explore other mediation options.
Controversial CBS Report on Iranian Aircraft
A CBS News report raised further questions about Pakistan’s involvement in the Iran-U.S. negotiations. The report claimed that Iranian military aircraft were stationed at Pakistani airbases to shield them from potential U.S. and Israeli strikes. According to the sources, multiple Iranian military and surveillance planes, including an Iranian Air Force RC-130, were reportedly seen at the Pakistan Air Force Base Nur Khan near Rawalpindi. These aircraft were allegedly stationed during April 2026, coinciding with talks held in Islamabad between U.S. and Iranian officials.
Pakistan's Foreign Ministry denied any involvement in military operations, stating that the aircraft’s presence was related to logistical and administrative support for the ongoing diplomatic engagement. The ministry clarified that the aircraft were “not linked to any military contingency or preservation arrangement” but were simply awaiting further rounds of talks. This statement came in response to mounting criticisms that Pakistan had potentially taken sides in the U.S.-Iran conflict.
The Stalemate in U.S.-Iran Negotiations
The U.S.-Iran conflict continues to be at an impasse, despite the temporary ceasefire in effect. Both sides have rejected each other’s proposals during the talks. Trump dismissed Iran’s latest diplomatic offer, calling it “TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE,” signaling that a deal may not be on the horizon anytime soon. The situation remains tense, with the strategic Strait of Hormuz still blocked by both the U.S. and Iran. The blockade has further disrupted the global oil supply, heightening concerns over the impact on energy markets.
While Iran has forwarded several proposals through Pakistan, the U.S. has shown little interest in compromising on its demands. As the conflict rages on, both countries face mounting pressure to resolve the situation diplomatically, but it remains unclear whether a long-term settlement is possible in the near future. Trump's defense of Pakistan highlights the complexities of the negotiations, as the role of neutral mediators becomes even more critical in the pursuit of peace.
