ISLAMABAD: China is increasingly being viewed as a potential guarantor in future negotiations between Iran and the United States, as diplomatic efforts intensify with Pakistan playing a key intermediary role.
According to Washington-based scholar Vali Nasr, Tehran has been seeking firm guarantees in any prospective agreement. He noted that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar was expected to visit China to explore Beijing’s possible role. However, he added that such a proposal would likely have been informally discussed with both Washington and Beijing, though China’s acceptance remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, Dar’s visit comes at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, highlighting Pakistan’s growing diplomatic engagement amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
In addition, Pakistan has continued to facilitate indirect communication between Tehran and Washington. On Sunday, Dar stated that a quadrilateral meeting involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt called for an immediate and lasting ceasefire.
Separately, Mushahid Hussain Syed, chairman of the Pakistan-China Institute, emphasized that China’s role at this stage is crucial, noting that Iran requires a strong guarantor and Beijing could fulfil that responsibility. He further suggested that China may link progress on a ceasefire to a potential visit by US President Donald Trump, reportedly expected in May.
Moreover, defence analyst Arshad Malik described Pakistan’s position as strong, saying Islamabad is handling the situation effectively.
The diplomatic push comes as the war, which began on February 28, enters its second month with no signs of de-escalation. The conflict has caused widespread casualties and economic disruption, particularly due to Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
Furthermore, the situation has escalated after Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis launched attacks on Israel, raising concerns over potential disruption in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
