Pakistan has received rare and significant recognition from Washington for its behind-the-scenes role in mediating between the United States and Iran, with a senior American congressman publicly praising the country’s leadership as a model of diplomatic excellence.
In a formal letter addressed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, US Congressman Jack Bergman described Pakistan’s contribution to ongoing peace efforts as “indispensable” and an example of “true statesmanship.”
Bergman, who co-chairs the Congressional Pakistan Caucus, sent the letter on May 15 using official House of Representatives letterhead—marking one of the most explicit public acknowledgements by an American legislator of Islamabad’s involvement in the sensitive diplomatic process.
“I write to express my sincere gratitude for the leadership you have both demonstrated in the ongoing peace negotiations between the United States and Iran,” Bergman stated, emphasizing that Pakistan had leveraged its unique regional position to bring hostile parties to the negotiating table.
The congressman also highlighted multiple occasions when President Donald Trump publicly commended Pakistan’s efforts. Trump reportedly praised both the prime minister and the army chief, saying, “Pakistan is terrific. Field Marshal Asim Munir is fantastic. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is great. They want to see something happen.”
Pakistan’s mediation began after a dangerous escalation in late February, when US and Israeli strikes on Iran triggered Iranian retaliation against Israel and regional countries hosting American military assets. The conflict disrupted global energy markets and raised fears of a wider regional war.
Islamabad successfully brokered a two-week ceasefire on April 8, followed by high-level talks in the Pakistani capital on April 11 and 12, attended by senior delegations from both Washington and Tehran. While those discussions did not produce a final agreement, they opened a channel for continued dialogue through exchanged proposals.
Bergman’s letter reflects a notable shift in how Washington views Pakistan—not merely as a security partner, but as a capable diplomatic actor with the influence and credibility to shape major regional outcomes.
“The United States’ relationship with Pakistan is of enduring strategic importance,” Bergman wrote, adding that Pakistan’s willingness to facilitate peace talks demonstrated genuine leadership on the world stage.
The congressman concluded by expressing the gratitude of the Congressional Pakistan Caucus and indicated his intention to visit Pakistan soon to further strengthen bilateral ties.
For Pakistan, the recognition comes at a time when the country is working to reposition itself as a stabilizing force in a volatile region. The acknowledgement from a sitting US lawmaker, delivered in writing and on the record, represents a significant diplomatic achievement and a boost to Pakistan’s international standing.
