Iran expresses worry over the deepening US-Pakistan alliance.

Pakistan is looking to contribute positively towards easing tensions between Iran and the United States, as stated by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan. This move comes as Iran appears to be shifting towards security diplomacy rather than confrontation.

In a politically sensitive and diplomatically precarious situation, Pakistan balances its strategic relationship with the US and support for its Muslim neighbor Iran. This delicate dance is crucial, as easing tension between Tehran and Washington could potentially ease US sanctions, according to trade lawyer Malik. However, until sanctions are eased, major projects like the gas pipeline remain effectively frozen.

The leaders of both countries recently agreed to boost bilateral relations, and this includes strengthening security ties. Iran is seeking to improve its ties with Pakistan, particularly for a credible conduit to Washington. This development was praised by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who commended Pakistan's commitment to mediating between Washington and Tehran and preserving regional stability.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian recently visited Pakistan, and it has been reported that Pakistan has been playing a role between Iran and the US. The leaders of both countries also agreed to address the security challenges related to militant activity near their border.

The region has long been plagued by a separatist insurgency on both sides of the border, with the Balochistan armed uprising in Pakistan occurring primarily because Balochistan, a mineral-rich province, has long been a center of violence and conflict where security forces face an insurgency, driven by local demands for greater autonomy and control over resources.

Iran and Pakistan share a 900-kilometer (560-mile) border that runs through Balochistan. Jaish Al-Adl in Iran and the Pakistan-based Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) have carried out numerous attacks near their border.

Despite these challenges, both countries have a strategic alliance in fighting militant groups. However, their relationship has at times been strained due to cross-border terrorism.

Trade between Pakistan and Iran is aimed to increase to $10 billion (€8.6 billion). However, US sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program are a major sticking point preventing full-scale bilateral trade. Trade law expert Malik believes that Iran would like Pakistan to use its newfound closeness to Trump to help it secure a civilian nuclear deal.

As both countries navigate this complex geopolitical landscape, their shared interests in regional stability and economic growth may provide a strong foundation for deeper cooperation.