general
Pakistan mediates between Iran and the United States while India stays out
As the Iran war reshapes regional politics, Pakistan has taken on a mediation role between Tehran and Washington while India has largely remained on the sidelines to protect its trade and strategic ties.
Mar 26th 2026 · Pakistan
Insights
- Pakistan has emerged as a backchannel mediator between Tehran and Washington over the Iran war.
- India has not engaged in meaningful conflict resolution and gave muted responses to incidents near its waters.
- India's growing ties with the United States and Israel and its trade sensitivities limit its diplomatic options on Iran.
- US actions such as a tariff on Indian oil imports have complicated India's effort to recalibrate relations with Washington.
- Pakistan's mediation could undermine India's bid to be seen as an independent global diplomatic actor.