Syed Khalid Muhammad, Executive Director – CommandEleven, spoke with The Media Line’s Arshad Mehmood about Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to Iran and Pakistan’s ties with Iran.
Told The Media Line that the deepening alliance between Pakistan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan could be viewed as a challenge to India.
He identified Iran as the “wild card,” citing its long-standing ties with India and Afghanistan, which often complicate its relationship with Pakistan.
Muhammed added that under growing US and Israeli pressure over its nuclear program, Iran is searching for new allies and may be recalibrating its regional posture.
He stressed that Tehran has historically supported insurgent groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army, but rumors now suggest Iran is willing to crack down on anti-Pakistan elements and dismantle Indian intelligence networks in Chabahar.
Still, Muhammed warned that skepticism in Islamabad remains high, as Iran’s economic and strategic ties with New Delhi are difficult to sever.
Responding to a question about Pakistan’s backing of Iran’s nuclear program, Muhammed said, “Sharif’s statement puts Pakistan in a difficult position. While this is something that China will appreciate and may draw Pakistan closer to Russia, it has the potential to put distance between Pakistan and the US—a relationship that has never gained traction outside of conflicts in Afghanistan.”
He concluded, “It’s a house of cards that Pakistan needs to be careful with, especially with India looking to restart an offensive. Public opinion will not favor Pakistan if it chooses to stand with Iran at this juncture.”
