Field Marshal Asim Munir spearheads diplomatic efforts to host a second round of US-Iran talks in Islamabad, coordinating with civilian leaders on a regional blitz
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s military chief has taken a central role in high-stakes diplomacy aimed at reviving peace talks between the United States and Iran.
Field Marshal Asim Munir travelled to Tehran last week, where Iranian leaders said he carried US proposals for a second round of negotiations.
The anticipated talks are expected to take place in Islamabad this week, with security being stepped up across the capital on Sunday in preparation.
Simultaneously, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his foreign minister conducted a whirlwind diplomatic tour across regional allies Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey.
The coordinated efforts illustrate the synergy within Pakistan’s often-described “hybrid regime”. “The synergy that is going on right now is giving results,” said Sheharyar Khan of the Islamabad-based National Dialogue Forum.
Munir was one of two Pakistani mediators present during the first face-to-face talks between the US and Iran in Islamabad on April 11.
A Pakistani official, speaking anonymously, stated that in such situations, “it’s not political leadership that takes the decision, but the military leadership.”
The official described Munir’s visit to Iran as “important” in bringing both sides back to the table, adding, “The deal is almost done. He is the only person who can convince Iranians for a deal.”
While the initial talks did not yield an agreement, they marked the highest-level direct negotiations between the two sides in decades.
Communications channels have remained open through Pakistan, building momentum for a second round.
Munir’s prominent diplomatic role coincides with a consolidation of military power in Pakistan, where he has been granted unprecedented legal immunity and an extended term.
Critics and the political opposition argue such moves have eroded democracy, though the military denies meddling in civilian affairs.
Analyst Sheharyar Khan noted that while civilians and military leaders work closely, Munir holds decisive authority. “Who is the strong man? Who is in the lead? That is obviously Mr. Field Marshal,” he said.
Munir has also cultivated a close relationship with US President Donald Trump, who often refers to him as his “favourite field marshal”.
Adam Weinstein of Washington’s Quincy Institute said this relationship is crucial. “Munir focused on Iran because it’s the key stakeholder and he’s seen as having the closest relationship with Trump,” he explained.
Retired Pakistani general Muhammad Saeed told AFP that Munir was in “direct communication” with US leadership to negotiate through sticking points. “His presence is bringing both the sides to a middle ground,” Saeed said.
