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WNAM REPORT: A panel discussion on “Pakistan’s Diplomacy: Strategic Mediation in the Iran–US Conflict” was held at the Tahir Amin Seminar Hall under the Department of Political Science at the Bahauddin Zakariya University (BZU), bringing together diplomats, academics, and journalists to examine Pakistan’s evolving diplomatic role amid rising global tensions.
The session opened with Assistant Professor Dr. Naim Mahboob, who highlighted the importance of understanding contemporary international conflicts through academic and policy-oriented perspectives, stressing the need for greater student engagement with issues of regional security and diplomacy.
The discussion was moderated by Chairman of the Department, Prof. Dr. Muqarrab Akbar, who emphasized that students in South Punjab have limited exposure to such high-level intellectual forums and that such initiatives help broaden their understanding of global political dynamics.
The panel featured former ambassadors Syed Zulfiqar Gardezi and Khayam Akbar, senior journalist Khalid Baig, and Dr. Shakeel Akhtar from Islamia University of Bahawalpur.
Speakers discussed Pakistan’s diplomatic balancing act amid Iran–US tensions, observing its efforts to maintain relations with major regional and global powers while safeguarding national interests. They described Pakistan’s approach as pragmatic, strategically balanced, and focused on regional stability.
Dr. Shakeel Akhtar maintained that the Iran–US conflict must be viewed through multiple international relations frameworks, highlighting Pakistan’s diplomatic maturity in supporting de-escalation efforts while protecting its national priorities.
Former diplomats emphasized Pakistan’s consistent policy of practical diplomacy and coordination between civil and military leadership, which they said has helped reduce the risk of wider regional escalation.
Speakers also pointed out that the geopolitical dynamics involve not only Iran and the United States but also China, Pakistan, and other regional stakeholders, making Pakistan’s stabilizing role increasingly significant.
Senior journalist Khalid Baig praised the role of Pakistani media in strengthening the national narrative and maintaining public confidence during periods of regional tension.
During the question-and-answer session, participants discussed maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, information warfare, international law, China’s role, and Pakistan’s strategic autonomy.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Dr. Muqarrab Akbar, who reaffirmed the department’s commitment to hosting further academic engagements on global affairs.
