Iran slams 'traitor' Pakistan amid Middle East Conflict; is Donald Trump's peace initiative in danger?

Tehran: Pakistan has consistently claimed that it is mediating a ceasefire amidst the ongoing tensions in West Asia and the conflict between Iran and the US. Just a day prior, Steve Witkoff—President Donald Trump's special envoy—confirmed within the US Cabinet that Pakistan is indeed playing the role of a mediator in the ongoing dialogue between the United States and Iran. However, Tehran has now lashed out at Islamabad. Iran has accused Pakistan of betrayal. According to intelligence sources, Iran now views Pakistan's role as a "double game," particularly in light of recent developments surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. This signals a growing rift in Iran-Pakistan relations.

Why is Iran angry with Pakistan?

In essence, this dispute stems from incidents involving the passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran had recently granted permission for oil and gas tankers belonging to friendly nations—including India—to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. In keeping with this policy, Iran extended this same privilege to vessels belonging to its long-standing ally, Pakistan. However, succumbing to pressure from President Trump, Pakistan allowed ten American vessels to traverse the Strait of Hormuz while flying the Pakistani flag. This maneuver has incensed Tehran against Islamabad. Consequently, Iran is now questioning the true allegiances of Pakistan, its self-proclaimed mediator. Caught in a complex web of sycophancy, cunning, brokering, and loyalty, Pakistan is now being branded a deceiver by Iran.

Is Pakistan Entangled in Donald Trump's strategy?

On the other hand, Donald Trump has openly asserted that ten American vessels successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz while flying the Pakistani flag. While the U.S. hails this as a diplomatic victory, Iran feels deceived and betrayed—perceiving that it was duped under the guise of friendship. Intelligence sources suggest that the Pakistani vessels granted permission to pass through the Strait of Hormuz were utilized—or their movements coordinated—in such a manner that the ultimate beneficiary was, in fact, the United States. Deepening Sense of Betrayal in Iran
In Tehran's view, this constitutes a violation of a "red line"; what was offered as a gesture of goodwill is now being perceived, indirectly, as an act aiding an adversary power. This development is also being viewed by certain fellow Muslim nations as an anti-Iran move. Consequently, the sense of betrayal directed against Pakistan has deepened further within certain segments of the Iranian establishment.

Why are Questions Raised Over Pakistan's Mediation Credibility?

In this context, questions are now being raised regarding the mediation efforts undertaken by Pakistan. Recently, Pakistan claimed to have conveyed a 15-point peace proposal between the United States and Iran; however, Iran has publicly refuted this claim of mediation. Iran will now characterize this not as a neutral endeavor, but rather as a move aligned with American interests. According to analysts and sources, Pakistan has become entangled in America's strategic game.

On one hand, it seeks to maintain engagement with Iran, while on the other, it aims to preserve close ties with the United States and the Gulf nations; yet, this balancing act appears to be tilting increasingly in one direction. This is also tarnishing its international credibility. A perception is rapidly gaining ground within Iran that Pakistan is not engaging in the "politics of balance," but is instead "utilizing both sides for strategic gain." Under these circumstances, tensions between the two allies could escalate, and regional diplomacy may become increasingly complex.