Pakistan Air Force escorted Iranian negotiators home after Islamabad talks

WEB DESK: The Pakistan Air Force escorted Iranian negotiators back home following inconclusive peace talks with the United States in Islamabad last weekend, after concerns emerged that Israel could attempt to target the delegation during their return journey, Reuters reported, citing multiple sources.

According to two Pakistani sources familiar with the matter, around two dozen fighter jets were deployed for the mission, alongside the Air Force’s Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), to ensure the safe passage of the Iranian delegation.

One source said similar security arrangements could be offered for future rounds of talks if requested by Tehran, while Pakistani aircraft would otherwise receive the delegation upon entering Pakistani airspace, according to Reuters.

The development underlines Pakistan’s growing diplomatic and security role in facilitating sensitive regional dialogue between Tehran and Washington.

Massive security operation

One security source described the escort as a “massive operational mission”, saying the deployment involved substantial military coordination and placed responsibility for the delegates’ safety in Pakistani hands even after they had left the country.

A separate source involved in the negotiations confirmed that the Iranian delegation was escorted all the way to Tehran, adding that their security remained Pakistan’s responsibility beyond the talks themselves.

Reuters reported that Chinese-made J-10 fighter aircraft, among the most advanced in the Pakistan Air Force fleet, were among those used during Sunday’s mission.

Fresh talks expected soon

The Iranian delegation was led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf. Sources said concerns were raised over a potential threat during travel, prompting Islamabad to insist on providing military escort.

A regional diplomat briefed by Tehran said the threat was discussed hypothetically, but Pakistan opted to take no chances. The diplomat added that the delegation did not formally request the escort, though they did not dismiss the possibility of an Israeli strike.

Preparations are reportedly already under way for another round of talks, expected as early as this weekend, as diplomatic efforts continue despite the lack of a breakthrough in the latest meeting.