Pakistan has quietly started mediating between Libya’s rival eastern and western power centers. This previously unreported effort could greatly raise Islamabad’s diplomatic profile worldwide.
The initiative follows months of a US-led push to find a diplomatic solution in Libya. The North African nation has faced severe divisions since a civil war broke out after the 2011 NATO-backed uprising. Consequently, the conflict successfully toppled former leader Muammar Qadhafi.
Interestingly, this move follows a separate mediation between the United States and Iran this year. Pakistan played a central role in those talks. As a result, the Trump administration repeatedly praised Islamabad for its helpful involvement.
According to insiders, the United States is “fully aware and involved” in Islamabad’s new Libya role. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia actively supports this latest diplomatic effort. This connection makes sense, especially since Islamabad struck a mutual defense pact with Saudi Arabia last year.
The Roots of the Secret Negotiation
Sources state that these peace efforts actually began late last year. Surprisingly, both Libyan sides specifically requested Islamabad’s direct involvement. However, it remains unclear how much Pakistan coordinates with other regional stakeholders.
Major official entities have not yet responded to requests for comment. These include Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the ISPR, and western and eastern Libyan officials. Similarly, the foreign ministries of Qatar, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the US have kept quiet.
High-Level Meetings Spark Speculation
Behind the scenes, military diplomacy is moving quickly. Last month, Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir met Libyan military chief Saddam Haftar in Rawalpindi.
Days later, Haftar visited Washington to meet Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The State Department released a statement following that meeting. It noted that Rubio welcomed Libyan leaders’ efforts to overcome divisions and reaffirmed US support for Libyan unity.
Defense Deals and Expanding Ties
Beyond diplomacy, Pakistani officials have pursued defense ties with the eastern-based LNA. These talks include the possible sale of JF-17 fighter jets and Super Mushak trainer aircraft. However, these discussions continue despite an active UN arms embargo.
Meanwhile, the rival western GNU also recently sought direct talks with Pakistan. Two sources familiar with the matter shared that Qatar and Turkey encouraged Pakistan to get involved. Both nations are major backers of the GNU.
Ultimately, Pakistan finds itself in a unique position. It now holds the trust of both sides in a fractured nation. If successful, this secret mediation could transform Islamabad into a vital peacemaker in the Middle East and Africa.
