Congress MP Shashi Tharoor recently commented on Pakistan’s involvement in the US-Iran peace talks, implying a unique diplomatic relationship between Islamabad and Washington. Tharoor sarcastically mentioned that only Pakistan could fulfill the role it has assumed with the US.
Questioning the authenticity of a social media post by Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed to US President Donald Trump, Tharoor suggested possible Washington involvement based on the post’s wording and structure. He highlighted the alleged coordination between the two nations, emphasizing Pakistan’s exclusive ability to engage diplomatically with the US.
Recent reports from The New York Times supported Tharoor’s claims, revealing that Sharif’s public appeal to Trump was not spontaneous but part of a coordinated effort with White House approval. The behind-the-scenes diplomatic coordination indicated a more active involvement than publicly acknowledged.
Tharoor, representing Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram in the Congress party, emphasized that India should not view Pakistan’s role in the ceasefire talks as a competition. He stressed that India’s primary focus should be on regional peace and stability, irrespective of the mediator.
Addressing the differences in stakes, Tharoor pointed out Pakistan’s geographical and demographic interests, such as its border with Iran and sizable Shia population, which could be directly impacted by any escalation. He underlined that Pakistan’s involvement in the conflict differs significantly from India’s interests.
Tharoor also highlighted the importance of Pakistan taking credible actions against terrorism to gain genuine international trust if projecting itself as a peacemaker. He emphasized the need for Islamabad to dismantle terror infrastructure and combat extremist elements.
The ongoing talks in Islamabad, with key representatives from the US and Iran led by Vice President JD Vance and Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, have garnered global attention amid fragile ceasefire conditions. Tharoor stressed India’s active engagement in regional affairs, emphasizing the significance of strategic involvement to safeguard national interests and promote stability.
Following a five-hour delay due to distrust and differences, the talks commenced as Pakistan facilitated discussions between the US and Iran. Describing the negotiations as trilateral and starting positively, Pakistan aimed to bring the parties to the table for direct talks.
Tharoor concluded that India must stay vigilant in regional developments, advocating for strategic involvement to protect national interests and contribute to stability.
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