'Torch bearer of peace': Politicians hail Pakistan's role as mediator in US-Iran agreement

In the early hours of Monday, the US and Iran agreed on a framework to end the more than three-month-long war, renewing hopes for a permanent end to the conflict that has engulfed much of the region.

In a post on X, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a deal had been struck, which was later confirmed by US President Donald Trump, with an “official signing ceremony” expected on Friday, June 19, in Switzerland.

Here’s how politicians reacted to the development, particularly to the role of Pakistan, a key mediator in the peace process.

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari hailed the peace deal, stressing that the “breakthrough” had shown that “diplomacy can succeed where confrontation cannot”.

He commended the roles played in the peace process by President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar as well as Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.

“This is an important first step toward lasting peace. Pakistan remains ready to support the next phase of dialogue and negotiations,” he said.

President Zardari also welcomed the development, expressing hope that it will “pave the way for a final agreement and lay the foundation for durable and comprehensive peace in the region”.

He held that Pakistan was proud to have supported dialogue and diplomacy during the “difficult period”.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, in a post on X, lauded the role of CDF Munir in the process.

“He did it. Again,” he said of CDF Munir, adding, “Not just for his country this time, but for the world”.

PPP Senator Sherry Rehman also welcomed the development, describing it as the outcome of Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts.

“The establishment of consensus between the US and Iran is a positive signal towards reducing tensions on a global scale,” a statement issued by the PPP’s media cell quoted her as saying. She expressed hope that the “confidence building” between the two nations will lead to “new hopes” in the region.

“Pakistan, playing a responsible and balanced role, has contributed to paving the way for an atmosphere of reconciliation,” she said, congratulating PM Shehbaz, CDF Munir and the Pakistani leadership for “elevating Pakistan’s prestige”.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, in a post on X, appreciated the role of CDF Munir, who he said had won two wars in “one year” — referring to the four-day conflict with India in May 2025.

“Victorious commander against India, and a triumphant diplomat with utmost patience and forbearance on the front of peace — successful on both fronts,” he said of CDF Munir, praying for future victories.

Asif also appreciated PM Shehbaz for his role in both the India and Iran conflicts with his “sincerity and diplomatic acumen”.

“This balance and singular focus in the interest of the country is the result that (by) the grace of God remains ongoing and continuous,” he said, optimistic that the leadership would “emerge victorious on the economic front and the war against terrorism as well”.

Meanwhile, Information Minister Ataullah Tarar, welcoming the development, said that Pakistan was a “torchbearer of peace and a beacon of hope”.

Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gillani paid tribute to the political and military leadership for their efforts, according to a statement carried by state broadcaster PTV.

“Positive outcomes of Iran-US Talks can usher in a new era of development and prosperity in the region,” PTV quoted him as saying.

Khyber Pankhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi termed the development a “welcome and timely step” that reflected the “triumph of dialogue over confrontation”.

He commended the efforts of the Pakistani leadership for their “coordinated, principled, and visionary efforts that contributed to a historic diplomatic achievement”.

He said the development had elevated “Pakistan’s standing as a credible and responsible force for peace, dialogue, and global stability,” adding that it had also reaffirmed Pakistan’s role as a “bridge-builder in moments of international significance”.

Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, in a post on X, said the agreement was a “powerful step” forward.

“Pakistan remains committed to global harmony, and I applaud our nation’s vital role in mediating this historic outcome,” he said, adding that the achievement was a direct result of CDF Munir and the prime minister’s “tireless efforts”.

​”June 19, 2026, is going to be a big day. Insha’Allah!” he added. ...