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Washington: Amidst the ongoing tension and fragile ceasefire between America and Iran, a new debate has erupted in American politics regarding Pakistan. US Senator Lindsey Graham has expressed his lack of trust in Pakistan and has raised questions on its role as a mediator. After Graham's statement, the discussion has intensified from social media to political circles.
During a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing, Graham questioned US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine on whether Pakistan had allowed Iranian aircraft to use its military bases. He did not get a clear answer but said that if it is true, then serious questions arise on Pakistan's role as a mediator.
During the hearing, Graham said that he did not trust Pakistan. He said that if Islamabad is really providing its airbases to protect Iranian military resources, then the US should trust another country for peace talks. Graham also said that this is the reason why the ceasefire process is not moving forward.
The entire controversy started after an American media report, which claimed that Pakistan had allowed Iran to use some of its airbases. The report quoted American officials as saying that this step may have been taken to protect Iranian military resources from American attacks. However, these claims have not been independently verified.
While Lindsey Graham raised questions on Pakistan, US President Donald Trump defended Pakistan. Trump said that Pakistan has done a good job in the role of mediator and America is not currently looking for a new mediator. He also praised the Prime Minister and military leadership of Pakistan.
The ongoing peace talks between America and Iran seem to be at a standstill at the moment. Donald Trump has described Iran's recent proposal as "weak" and "unacceptable". On the other hand, Iran has warned that if America continues its unilateral attitude, it will retaliate.
There is already a tense situation in West Asia. In such a situation, the questions raised regarding Pakistan have further complicated the diplomatic equations. Experts believe that if questions are raised about the impartiality of mediator countries, peace talks may become more difficult.