Two Republican senators accused Pakistan and Qatar of having long-standing links to militant groups
Two Republican senators have publicly questioned Pakistan‘s role in ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Iran, raising concerns over Islamabad’s past links to militant groups and its credibility as a mediator in regional negotiations.
The remarks came as US Vice President JD Vance participated in discussions in Switzerland alongside representatives from Pakistan and Qatar on technical aspects of a potential peace arrangement involving Iran.
Rick Scott criticises Pakistan and Qatar
Senator Rick Scott of Florida said Pakistan and Qatar had histories that raised concerns about their involvement in efforts aimed at securing a long-term agreement with Tehran.
“It should be clear to everybody by now who our friends really are. Qatar and Pakistan have long histories of harbouring terrorists, and right now they seem far more invested in propping up Iran’s decades-long terror campaign than achieving a meaningful peace,” Scott wrote on social media.
Despite his criticism, Scott said there remained scope for a negotiated settlement but insisted that any agreement must prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
“There is still room for a workable agreement that benefits everyone. However, there is zero chance Iran comes out of this able to build a nuclear weapon,” he said.
Sheehy cites bin Laden episode
Senator Tim Sheehy of Montana also criticised Pakistan during an interview with Fox News, referring to the discovery of Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad in 2011.
“Pakistan, let’s not forget, Pakistan hid bin Laden for a decade,” Sheehy said while questioning Islamabad’s role in regional diplomacy.
He further alleged that elements within Pakistan’s security establishment had historically supported insurgent networks, although he did not provide evidence for the claims during the interview.
Calls for wider regional participation
Sheehy argued that countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Israel and Saudi Arabia should play a larger role in any future negotiations involving Iran.
According to him, those nations remain Washington’s most dependable partners in the region and should be central to discussions concerning regional security.
“The UAE, Israel and Saudi Arabia were the real allies of the US in the Middle East,” he said.
He also criticised Qatar’s role, alleging that the country had for years facilitated funding channels linked to extremist organisations.
Debate over mediation efforts
The comments highlight growing debate within US political circles over the role being played by regional intermediaries as Washington and Tehran attempt to advance negotiations following months of heightened tensions.
While the United States has publicly welcomed mediation efforts by Pakistan and Qatar, some lawmakers continue to express concerns about the long-term strategic implications of relying on those countries in sensitive regional negotiations.
For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.
