The surprise country behind US-Iran ceasefire

Pakistan emerged as a key intermediary in last-minute talks that led to a two-week ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran.

In the hours before the announcement, small signs of progress had already appeared from Islamabad, where backchannel negotiations were ongoing.

A source familiar with the process said discussions were moving “at pace,” with Pakistan facilitating communication between both sides.

The source, who was not part of the core negotiating team, described the process as being handled by “a very small circle,” adding that the mood was “sombre and serious but still hopeful that a cessation of hostilities will be the outcome.”

Pakistan has spent weeks acting as a go-between, passing messages between Tehran and Washington. Its longstanding relationship with Iran, including a shared border and what it often describes as a “brotherly” connection, positioned it uniquely for the role.

On the American side, ties have also been notable. Donald Trump has publicly expressed confidence in Pakistan’s military leadership, referring to Asim Munir as his “favourite” Field Marshal and suggesting he understands Iran “better than most.”

Despite this, the outcome remained uncertain late into the night. Asim Munir had earlier criticised regional tensions, warning that attacks on Saudi Arabia were undermining “sincere efforts to resolve the conflict through peaceful means.”

After midnight, Pakistan’s prime minister indicated that “diplomatic efforts are progressing steadily, strongly and powerfully,” while urging an extension of deadlines and calling for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz temporarily.

Hours later, Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, signalled progress, describing developments as “a step forward from critical, sensitive stage.”

Shortly before dawn, Pakistan confirmed that a ceasefire had been agreed and invited both parties to Islamabad on April 10 for further negotiations toward a final deal.

Even then, caution remained. The same source noted “continued fragility” and a lack of trust between the two sides, with positions still deeply entrenched.

Pakistan’s success in brokering the pause stems from its ability to maintain workable ties with both Washington and Tehran, its geographic proximity to Iran, and active engagement by its military leadership.

Islamabad has leveraged its rare position as a country able to engage all sides, placing itself firmly back on the diplomatic stage.

BBC Report contributed to this story