Pakistan will remain central to Gulf’s emerging security architecture: Masood

Former Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, China and the United Nations, and former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Sardar Masood Khan has said that Pakistan has emerged as a trusted stabilising force in the Gulf and will continue to play a central role in shaping a new regional security and economic architecture as countries seek lasting peace through dialogue rather than confrontation. Speaking in a television interview, he said the recent United States–Iran Memorandum of Understanding has created an opportunity to replace decades of hostility with regional cooperation based on economic integration, reconstruction and collective security. He observed that Pakistan’s successful mediation has earned the confidence of all major stakeholders, enabling it to bridge differences among the United States, Iran and the Gulf states. Sardar Masood Khan said that although the regional security environment remains fragile, the diplomatic process continues to move forward. He noted that confidence-building measures between Washington and Tehran, coupled with sustained engagement by the mediators, remain essential for preserving the ceasefire and preventing renewed escalation across the Middle East. He observed that discussions are underway regarding the future of the United States’ military footprint in the Gulf, following the vulnerabilities exposed during the recent conflict. While adjustments to the regional security posture may occur, he said the broader objective should be to establish a cooperative security framework that promotes stability instead of prolonged confrontation. Highlighting the significance of the Memorandum of Understanding, Sardar Masood Khan said the agreement provides a framework for sanctions relief, economic reconstruction, enhanced regional connectivity and closer security cooperation between Iran and the Gulf countries. He noted that successful implementation of these commitments could fundamentally transform the strategic landscape of