Islamabad Calls Reports “Misleading” Amid Ongoing Tehran–Washington Diplomacy
Pakistan has firmly rejected claims that Iranian military aircraft were secretly sheltered at Nur Khan Airbase to protect them from possible United States airstrikes. Officials described the allegations as “misleading” and said the reports misrepresented routine diplomatic and logistical arrangements linked to ongoing talks between Tehran and Washington.
The controversy emerged after a report by CBS News and discussions circulating on X suggested that several Iranian aircraft, including a reconnaissance version of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, had been stationed at the Pakistani airbase following last month’s ceasefire announcement.
However, sources familiar with the diplomatic process clarified that the aircraft presence was directly connected to the Islamabad Talks involving Iran and the United States.
According to officials, both Iranian and American aircraft arrived in Pakistan carrying diplomatic delegations, security teams, and administrative staff during the first round of negotiations held in Islamabad. The aircraft remained temporarily parked at Nur Khan Airbase strictly for logistical coordination and operational convenience.
Sources added that several Iranian aircraft and personnel stayed in Pakistan in anticipation of a possible second phase of negotiations. During this period, Iran’s foreign minister reportedly visited Islamabad twice, and existing arrangements helped facilitate those diplomatic visits smoothly.
Officials also revealed that American aircraft and security personnel had similarly entered Pakistan for expected follow-up engagements before later relocating to regional US bases.
Pakistan Emphasizes Neutral Mediation Role
Pakistani authorities stressed that Islamabad acted as a neutral facilitator throughout the diplomatic process, providing equal support to both Tehran and Washington.
“Pakistan has remained fully transparent with both sides and consistently maintained open communication whenever any confusion arose,” sources stated.
Officials further rejected suggestions that Iranian aircraft were being hidden from potential attacks, pointing out that the aircraft arrived during a ceasefire period — not during active military escalation.
“No Iranian aircraft were targeted by the United States during that period, even inside Iran,” sources emphasized, calling the preservation narrative “entirely baseless.”
Concerns Over Regional Tensions
Pakistani officials accused certain sections of international media of sensationalizing a routine diplomatic development and attempting to fuel regional instability.
Authorities reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to encouraging dialogue between Tehran and Washington and will continue playing a constructive role in promoting peace, diplomacy, and regional security.
The development highlights Islamabad’s increasing importance as a diplomatic bridge in Middle Eastern affairs, particularly during periods of heightened tensions between the United States and Iran.
