Pakistan has dismissed claims that it permitted Iranian aircraft to use its airfields amid escalating tensions with the United States. Reports suggested that this could offer protection to Iranian planes from potential airstrikes, even as Pakistan acts as a vital link between the two nations.
A report from May 11 indicated that Iran might have dispatched civilian aircraft to Afghanistan due to the ongoing conflict.
On Tuesday, Pakistan’s foreign ministry called the report “misleading and sensational,” suggesting that such speculative coverage appears to undermine ongoing peace efforts in the region. They stated that during initial talks after a ceasefire, numerous Iranian and U.S. aircraft came to Pakistan, primarily for facilitating diplomatic and administrative movements related to negotiations. However, they specified that only some aircraft and support personnel temporarily remained in Pakistan for future engagements.
The alleged transfer of Iranian equipment raised suspicions that Iran was attempting to hide some of its remaining aviation assets while Pakistan quietly worked to mediate peace between Iran and the U.S.
President Trump expressed his satisfaction with Pakistan’s mediation efforts, describing them as “excellent” just ahead of his upcoming trip to China. He noted that “the Pakistani people have been great,” praising both the military and political leadership.
Pakistan’s involvement increased significantly in April, especially during rising tensions related to the Strait of Hormuz crisis. Following a temporary ceasefire, Islamabad hosted a senior delegation for talks on April 11 and 12.
Officials reported that the Iranian government sent various aircraft to Nur Khan Air Base shortly after the ceasefire was announced in early April. This base plays a critical role in the logistics and operations of the Pakistan Air Force.
Among the aircraft reportedly moved was an Iranian Air Force RC-130, a sophisticated reconnaissance version of the C-130 Hercules.
Despite initial progress in U.S.-Iran negotiations, talks in Islamabad on April 11 ultimately faltered. Nevertheless, there’s a sense of optimism within Pakistan’s leadership, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressing hope that the current momentum could lead to a lasting agreement.
On May 7, President Trump reiterated his approval of Pakistan’s mediating role, saying the leadership there had been “wonderful.” As part of his initiatives, he launched “Project Freedom” aimed at ensuring safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, which may ease shipping tensions.
However, Trump’s attempts to assist thousands of stranded crew members were curtailed after two days, following requests from other countries, including Pakistan, to avoid jeopardizing negotiations with Iran.
Senator Lindsey Graham remarked that if Pakistan indeed provided refuge for Iranian aircraft during negotiations, it would necessitate a reassessment of Pakistan’s intermediary role. He noted the potential implications of previous statements by Pakistani officials regarding Israel.
FOX News Digital reached out for comments from the Pakistani government, the White House, and U.S. Central Command.
