NEW DELHI — Israel has raised sharp objections to the portrayal of Pakistan as a primary mediator in the recent US-Iran ceasefire, with Israeli Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, labeling Islamabad a “problematic” and “not credible” player in the diplomatic process.
The remarks come despite public acknowledgments from both Washington and Islamabad regarding the involvement of Pakistan’s civil and military leadership in brokering the 14-day truce.
Ambassador Azar’s Critique
Speaking to ANI on Thursday, Ambassador Azar suggested that the United States’ decision to involve Pakistan was a matter of tactical convenience rather than a reflection of Pakistan’s standing as a neutral arbiter.
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Strategic Skepticism: Azar compared the current situation to past US engagements with countries like Qatar and Turkey to negotiate with groups like Hamas, implying that Pakistan is being used as a functional tool for specific American objectives.
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Alignment with Washington: He emphasized that while the US may use various facilitators, Israel remains focused on the “substance and essence” of the final outcome, ensuring it aligns with the 15-point plan for regional stability.
The “Joint Venture” in Islamabad
In contrast to Israel’s dismissal, Pakistan has framed the ceasefire as a major diplomatic victory. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the mediation effort as a “joint venture” between:
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The Civilian Administration: Led by PM Sharif.
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The Military Leadership: Specifically Field Marshal Asim Munir, who Sharif praised for managing “sensitive backchannel communications” between Washington, Tehran, and Gulf capitals.
US President Donald Trump also lent weight to this narrative, explicitly crediting Field Marshal Munir for being “extremely influential” in halting the escalation from the Pakistani side.
Netanyahu’s Warning
While a 14-day ceasefire is currently in effect, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintained a defiant stance in a recent national address:
“Iran is weaker than ever, and Israel is stronger than ever… We are prepared to return to combat at any moment required. Our finger is on the trigger.”
Regional Focus: Lebanon vs. Iran
Azar clarified that the negotiations regarding Iran are distinct from operations in Lebanon. He reiterated that Israel’s primary goal in the north remains the total clearance of Hezbollah infrastructure from southern Lebanon, a responsibility he placed squarely on the Lebanese government.
The ceasefire remains a fragile pause in a broader conflict, with Israel signaling that it will continue to monitor the “essence” of the deal rather than the identity of the mediators.
