US Defence Secretary Hegseth Praises Pakistan's Role in Iran Nuclear Talks
United States Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth has publicly praised Pakistan's diplomatic role in facilitating US-Iran nuclear negotiations, declaring that Washington and Islamabad are developing a 'true friendship.' The remarks represent a significant public endorsement of Pakistan's behind-the-scenes engagement in one of the most consequential diplomatic processes of the current global order.
Hegseth's statement marks a notable shift in the tenor of US-Pakistan relations, which have historically been characterised by transactional cooperation rather than declared partnership. By specifically crediting Islamabad's contribution to the Iran talks, the Pentagon chief elevates Pakistan's standing as a regional interlocutor with both Western powers and the Islamic world.
Pakistan has long maintained diplomatic ties with Tehran, a relationship that has periodically positioned Islamabad as a potential back-channel between Iran and Western states. The public acknowledgement from a senior US cabinet official confirms that this channel has been operationally significant during the current round of negotiations.
The development carries substantial weight for Pakistan's foreign policy posture, coming at a time when Islamabad is also navigating complex relations with India, managing economic reform under an IMF programme, and rebuilding its international image. A US defence secretary publicly calling the relationship a 'true friendship' provides significant diplomatic capital that extends well beyond the Iran file.
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