ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is poised to host critical peace talks between the United States and Iran, following the successful negotiation of a two-week ceasefire amid escalating tensions in the region. With the negotiations scheduled to begin on Saturday, the Pakistani government has declared a two-day holiday in the capital, creating a quieter atmosphere as approximately 10,000 police and security forces are deployed to ensure safety.

The stakes are extraordinarily high, not just for global powers, but for Pakistan itself, which could face severe repercussions if the talks falter. Abdul Basit, a South Asia expert at Nanyang Technological University, warned of a potential "nightmare scenario" should Pakistan find itself embroiled in conflict with Iran, especially in light of its mutual defense pact with Saudi Arabia. "Pakistan cannot afford to provoke conflicts on three fronts, especially while managing insurgencies on two of its borders," he explained.

While the dread of war simmers beneath the surface, excitement is palpable among Pakistanis, who are leveraging social media to celebrate their country’s role as a mediator. "This is a victory; no other country could broker this ceasefire. Pakistan averted a catastrophe," Basit noted. After enduring political instability and an economy on the brink of collapse, Pakistan’s diplomatic success is being viewed with pride.

At the forefront of this diplomatic endeavor is Asim Munir, Pakistan's military chief, who has cultivated essential ties with US President Donald Trump. Munir's early rapport with Trump has yielded tangible benefits, including the return of a key suspect in the Kabul airport bombing incident. Additionally, Pakistan's commitment to providing access to vital mineral resources has only strengthened these bonds, with significant investments made in recent months.

Despite these close ties, Pakistan has cautiously navigated its relationships, condemning the US-Israeli actions against Iran while also standing firm against Iran's bombing of Saudi Arabian oil fields, showcasing the delicate balance Pakistan is trying to maintain in the complex geopolitical environment of the region.