The Inside Story Podcast Can Pakistan broker peace between the US and Iran?
Mar 30, 2026
Bozkurt Aran, former Turkish ambassador and regional policy director; Ali Vaez, Iran specialist and negotiator; Munir Akram, seasoned Pakistani diplomat. They debate Pakistan offering to host US-Iran talks. Conversations cover why Oman stepped back, regional economic and security costs, risks of being used, Israel's influence, and practical starting points like guarantees and Hormuz arrangements.
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Oman Was Burned Twice During Mediation
- Oman’s previous mediation role stalled after the US and Israel bombed Iran mid-negotiations and Oman itself came under Iranian attack.
- Ali Vaez recounts Gulf states’ collective decision not to mediate while Iran continues attacking them.
Geography Dictates The Terms Of Any Deal
- Geography and domestic minorities shape regional stakes, making mediation about guarantees as much as diplomacy.
- Bozkurt Aran highlights the Strait of Hormuz and minority risks in Iran, Pakistan and Turkey as core geographic drivers.
Pakistan’s Motive Is Strategic Compulsion
- Pakistan’s mediation is driven by strategic compulsion, not just domestic politics, because escalation would split its alliances and inflame internal sectarian tensions.
- Munir Akram notes Pakistan has defense ties to Saudi Arabia yet a large Shia minority and a shared border with Iran.