ISLAMABAD: Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following recent USmilitary actions against Iranian targets, sensational media reports haveemerged alleging that American F-35 stealth fighters might use Pakistaniairspace as a corridor for strikes on Iran. These claims, primarilycirculating on social media and certain regional outlets, have sparkedwidespread speculation about Pakistan’s possible involvement in USoperations. The Pakistan Foreign Office has categorically rejected suchassertions, labeling them as baseless disinformation aimed at draggingIslamabad into a conflict it has consistently condemned.
The controversy gained traction after unverified posts suggested unusualflight patterns of US aerial refueling and surveillance aircraft near thePakistan-Iran border, implying facilitation for advanced stealth platformslike the F-35 and F-22. Proponents of these reports pointed to Pakistan’sstrategic location and past alliances with the United States as potentialenablers. However, official sources emphasized that no evidence supportsthese allegations, highlighting Pakistan’s public condemnation of prior USstrikes on Iran during regional escalations involving Israel.
Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has actively debunkedthese narratives through its fact-check mechanisms. It stated that claimsof US aircraft arriving in Pakistan or conducting operations toward Iranianairspace are purely fabricated. The ministry recalled Islamabad’sconsistent stance against foreign military actions on Iranian soil,including condemnations issued during a brief but intense 12-day conflictbetween Iran and Israel where US involvement was noted.
Defense analysts observe that US stealth operations, such as thoseinvolving F-35 fighters, typically rely on alternative routes to avoiddiplomatic complications. Recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilitiesreportedly utilized pathways over the Indian Ocean and other alliedairspaces, with B-2 bombers and accompanying fighters employing long-rangemissions without needing Pakistani overflight. This pattern underscoresWashington’s preference for routes that minimize political fallout withneutral or non-aligned states.
Pakistan’s position remains firmly rooted in sovereignty andnon-interference. The Foreign Office has reiterated that no permission hasbeen granted for any foreign military use of its airspace against Iran.This denial aligns with broader diplomatic efforts to maintain balancedrelations in the region, especially given historical border tensions andrecent cross-border incidents between Pakistan and Iran targeting militantgroups.
The F-35 Lightning II, a fifth-generation multirole stealth fighterdeveloped by Lockheed Martin, represents one of the most advanced assets inthe US arsenal. Equipped with superior sensor fusion, low observability,and network-centric capabilities, it has been deployed in various globaloperations to penetrate defended airspace. Reports of its potential usenear Iran highlight the ongoing strategic competition, yet Pakistan’srejection ensures it stays outside such direct involvement.
Experts note that spreading such rumors serves multiple purposes, includingattempting to strain Pakistan-Iran ties amid fragile border securitydynamics. Islamabad has historically prioritized de-escalation with Tehran,as evidenced by diplomatic engagements following earlier airspaceviolations and retaliatory actions against militants.
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Pakistan continues to advocate for peaceful resolutions in the Middle Eastwhile safeguarding its territorial integrity. The government’s swiftresponse to these media reports demonstrates vigilance against propagandathat could undermine regional stability. As tensions persist, Islamabad’sclear position reinforces its commitment to independent foreign policy.
Source:https://www.dawn.com/news/1966572/info-ministry-rubbishes-claims-of-pakistan-being-used-as-a-base-for-possible-us-strike-on-iran
Tags: Pakistan, United States, Iran, F-35, Foreign Office
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