New Delhi: Reuven Azar, Israel’s ambassador to India, has expressed scepticism about Pakistan acting as a mediator in the ongoing discussions between the United States and Iran, stating that Israel does not view Islamabad as a credible participant in the diplomatic process.
Speaking ahead of scheduled talks between Washington and Tehran on April 11, Azar said the United States may have its own strategic reasons for involving Pakistan in facilitating communication between the two sides. However, he emphasised that Israel does not consider the country a reliable actor in such negotiations.
The Israeli envoy drew comparisons with earlier diplomatic efforts where the United States engaged countries such as Qatar and Turkey to help broker temporary arrangements during the conflict in Gaza. According to him, Israel’s priority remains to stay closely aligned with Washington on the broader objectives and outcomes of the negotiations.
Azar also addressed the security situation involving Hezbollah in Lebanon, clarifying that Israel’s military actions there are separate from the discussions related to Iran. He said Israel’s goal is to ensure that southern Lebanon is cleared of Hezbollah’s military infrastructure, a responsibility he said lies with the Lebanese government.
He added that Israel maintains the right to defend its northern border from attacks by the Iran backed militant group. Israeli operations in Lebanon, he noted, are intended to prevent future threats to communities in northern Israel.
Regarding the broader ceasefire with Iran, Azar said Israel supports diplomatic efforts led by the United States. He expressed hope that the negotiations would address what Israel views as two major threats posed by Tehran, namely its nuclear programme and ballistic missile capabilities.
The comments come amid a fragile pause in hostilities between the United States and Iran. Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu have also clarified that the situation in Lebanon is not directly covered under the ceasefire framework, leaving tensions in the region unresolved.
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