Israeli envoy says Islamabad not a reliable mediator, stresses focus on Hezbollah threat
Israel has raised doubts over Pakistan’s role as a mediator in ongoing ceasefire discussions between the United States and Iran, calling it “not a credible player”.
Speaking to ANI, Israel’s ambassador to India Reuven Azar said Tel Aviv does not view Islamabad as a reliable facilitator, even as Washington engages with it.
‘US may have its own reasons’
Azar said the United States may have strategic reasons to involve Pakistan in the process, but stressed that Israel’s focus remains on the outcome rather than the mediator.
“We don’t see Pakistan as a credible player… the US has decided to use its services for its own reasons,” he said.
#WATCH | Delhi: On Pakistan’s role as a mediator, Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, said, “We don’t see Pakistan as a credible player. I think that the United States has decided to use the services of the facilitation of Pakistan for their own reasons. We have seen in… pic.twitter.com/UErWPsTzzH
— ANI (@ANI) April 8, 2026
Comparison with past mediators
He also drew comparisons with past situations where the US worked with countries like Qatar and Turkey to broker temporary truces, including during conflicts involving Hamas.
Focus on Hezbollah and Lebanon
Azar clarified that Israel’s primary concern remains the threat from Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
He said Israel wants to ensure the complete removal of Hezbollah’s infrastructure from areas south of the Litani River, adding that this responsibility lies with the Lebanese government.
Separate track for Iran conflict
The envoy noted that Israel’s approach to Iran is distinct from its position on Lebanon, expressing cautious support for ongoing negotiations with Tehran.
He said Israel hopes talks with Iran will lead to outcomes aligned with broader security goals, while maintaining that the country has the right to defend itself against threats along its borders.
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