Shehbaz Sharif says mediating Iran-US truce was 'very difficult' as he praises Pakistan's role

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday described the mediation efforts between the United States and Iran as "very difficult" and "complicated", saying Islamabad remained committed to helping both sides reach peace after months of conflict.

Sharif calls mediation a difficult task

Speaking to Turkish state broadcaster TRT during his visit to Istanbul, Sharif said Pakistan was honoured to play a mediating role between Washington and Tehran.

"It has been a great honour to play the role of mediator to bring a truce between the US and Iran. It was a very novel undertaking, but also a very difficult and complicated task," he said.

Sharif expressed hope that the ceasefire would pave the way for lasting peace between the two countries after months of hostilities.

More from World

Pakistan remained honest and sincere, claims Sharif

Sharif said Pakistan approached the mediation process with sincerity, describing Iran as a "brotherly and neighbouring" country while maintaining communication with both sides.

He said there were several moments when the negotiations appeared close to collapsing but Pakistan continued its efforts.

"There were moments when it felt like everything would fall through. But we did not lose hope and remained consistent," he said.

 Sharif's praise for Army chief Asim Munir

The Prime Minister credited Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir for playing a key role in the mediation process.

"He was in touch with Iran and the US. He worked through the nights, burning his midnight oil and untiringly," Sharif said.

He also praised Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar for his contribution to the diplomatic efforts.

Visit follows Tehran funeral

Sharif arrived in Turkey on Friday after attending the funeral of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran.

According to Pakistan's Prime Minister's Office, Sharif paid tribute to Khamenei, describing him as a leader who guided Iran for decades with "remarkable wisdom and sagacity."

Pakistan claims role in Iran-US truce

Sharif said Pakistan, alongside Turkey, Qatar, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, helped facilitate dialogue between Iran and the United States.

He said the mediation efforts eventually led to the signing of an interim peace agreement after weeks of negotiations, opening the door for further talks aimed at ending the conflict.