Pezeshkian Tells Pakistan PM That "Trust" is Prerequisite for Middle East Mediation

In an hour-long call, Iranian President Pezeshkian emphasized to Pakistan’s PM Sharif that "trust" is the missing component for mediation in the current regional conflict.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 28, 2026, 6:28 AM EDT

Source: Reuters

Pakistan’s Pivotal Diplomatic Role

During the call, Prime Minister Sharif briefed President Pezeshkian on Pakistan's high-level diplomatic contacts with the United States and various Gulf nations. Pakistan has emerged as a key intermediary, uniquely positioned to relay messages between the Western-backed coalition and the Iranian leadership. Pezeshkian reportedly praised these efforts, signaling that Tehran views Islamabad as a credible messenger, even as the Iranian president remains skeptical of the underlying intentions of other combatant parties.

The "Trust Gap" in Current Negotiations

Pezeshkian’s emphasis on "trust" appears to be a direct response to the United States' 15-point peace proposal and ongoing back-channel communications. While the U.S. has projected an optimistic timeline for concluding military operations, the Iranian leadership has consistently denied that direct negotiations with Washington have taken place. Pezeshkian’s comments suggest that until Tehran sees a tangible shift in "aggression" on the ground, diplomatic overtures will be viewed with caution.

Coordination Amidst Regional Volatility

The call occurred against a backdrop of significant regional escalation, including the first confirmed Houthi missile strikes on Israel and continued U.S.-Israeli bombardments within Iran. By maintaining a robust dialogue with Sharif, Pezeshkian is attempting to ensure that Iran's "legitimate interests"—a phrase also echoed in recent talks with Russia—are represented in the various mediation tracks being managed by regional powers like Turkey, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia.