In Pakistan's mediation to end Mideast war, China may hold the keyPakistan is preparing for high-stakes talks between the United States and Iran on ending the war in the Middle East. After Pakistan's foreign minister quickly flew to Beijing last month following de-escalation discussions with Saudi, Turkish and Egyptian counterparts, China said it backed Pakistan's efforts to mediate. - 'Uphill battle' -China has not sought the limelight in peace building efforts, reiterating only that it has been mediating and encouraging an end to hostilities. Analysts and officials said the prospect of China openly stepping in to a formal guarantor role in coming weeks was also uncertain. A major sticking point is over Lebanon, which Pakistan's prime minister and Iran have insisted is included in the ceasefire and Israel has denied.

Source: Bangkok Post April 10, 2026 08:50 UTC