ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has categorically rejected a CBS News report alleging that it allowed Iranian military aircraft to use its airbases, including Nur Khan Airbase near Rawalpindi.
The Foreign Office described the claims as misleading, speculative, and sensationalised, stating they appear aimed at undermining ongoing regional peace efforts.
Saudi state media outlet Al Arabiya prominently covered Pakistan’s denial, reporting that the aircraft movements were linked to diplomatic activities during the ceasefire period and bore no connection to any military sheltering arrangement.
The CBS report, citing unnamed US officials, claimed that shortly after the US-Iran ceasefire announced in early April 2026, Iran moved several military aircraft—including an RC-130 reconnaissance variant—to Pakistani territory. This was suggested as a measure to shield them from potential American or Israeli strikes.
US Senator Lindsey Graham reacted strongly, calling for a complete reevaluation of Pakistan’s role as mediator. “If this reporting is accurate, it would require a complete reevaluation of the role Pakistan is playing as mediator between Iran, the United States and other parties,” Graham posted on X. He added that he would not be shocked given prior statements by Pakistani officials.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office clarified that limited aircraft from both Iran and the United States arrived in Pakistan to support diplomatic personnel, security teams, and administrative staff involved in the Islamabad talks. Officials emphasised that such movements were standard facilitation measures and not linked to operational military contingencies.
Pakistan has played a central role in mediating between Washington and Tehran following the fragile ceasefire brokered in early April. Multiple rounds of talks have been hosted in Islamabad, with Pakistani diplomats shuttling between the parties to sustain the diplomatic track amid tensions over the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional security.
Al Arabiya’s coverage highlighted Pakistan’s firm denial and noted the context of Saudi support for Islamabad’s mediation efforts. Saudi Arabia has repeatedly backed Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives, with Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan holding discussions with his Pakistani and Iranian counterparts on de-escalation and the peace process.
The development comes as the ceasefire, initially announced by US President Donald Trump, faces challenges. Reports indicate continued diplomatic engagement, though progress remains slow on core issues. Pakistan has maintained that its role remains strictly neutral and focused on facilitating dialogue.
**Background and Context** Pakistan’s mediation emerged after direct US-Iran confrontations escalated earlier in 2026. Islamabad leveraged its relations with both sides—long-standing ties with Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states on one hand, and geographical and historical links with Iran on the other—to position itself as a credible channel.
The Nur Khan Airbase, a key Pakistan Air Force facility adjacent to Rawalpindi, has hosted diplomatic and logistical support activities in the past. Pakistani officials stress that temporary aircraft presence for high-level talks does not equate to operational sheltering.
**Reactions and Regional Implications** The CBS report and Graham’s comments have drawn attention in Washington, with some questioning the impartiality of the mediation. However, Trump has previously described Pakistan’s efforts positively.
In the region, Gulf states including Saudi Arabia have expressed support for continued diplomatic tracks led by Pakistan, viewing them as essential to prevent further escalation that could impact energy security and stability.
Market observers note that sustained uncertainty affects oil prices and regional trade routes, though no immediate disruptions were reported following the latest exchanges.
Analysts suggest the episode underscores the complexities of multi-party mediation in a high-stakes environment. Questions about trust and verification mechanisms may influence future formats of engagement.
Pakistan is expected to continue its facilitation role in upcoming rounds. Diplomatic sources indicate that both US and Iranian teams remain engaged through Pakistani channels, with focus on implementing ceasefire terms and addressing outstanding differences.
The coming weeks will likely see further clarification from involved parties as talks progress toward more structured agreements. Regional stakeholders continue to watch developments closely for their potential impact on broader Middle East security dynamics.