‘Not a credible player’: Israel envoy slams Pakistan’s role in US-Iran talks

Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has cast doubt on Pakistan’s role as a mediator in the ongoing US-Iran engagement, saying Tel Aviv does not consider Islamabad a “credible player” in the process.

In an interview with ANI, Azar said the United States may have its own strategic reasons for involving Pakistan in facilitation efforts, but Israel remains focused on aligning with Washington on the desired outcome of negotiations.

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“We don’t see Pakistan as a credible player. The United States has decided to use its facilitation for its own reasons,” Azar said, adding that similar approaches have been used in the past with countries such as Qatar and Turkey in conflict negotiations.

Gaza, Lebanon conflicts ‘separate’ from Iran talks

Azar also clarified that Israel views the situations in Gaza and Lebanon as distinct from the ongoing developments involving Iran. Referring to Hamas and Hezbollah, he said each theatre of conflict is being handled independently.

“There is already an international framework regarding Gaza. Hamas has to disarm. It has nothing to do with the operation in Iran,” he said. On Lebanon, Azar stressed that the responsibility lies with the Lebanese government to ensure that southern regions are cleared of Hezbollah’s infrastructure.

His remarks come amid differing claims from Shehbaz Sharif, who had earlier suggested that Lebanon was part of a broader ceasefire understanding.

‘15-point plan’ for Iran

Outlining Israel’s expectations from any potential agreement, Azar referred to a “15-point plan” that includes curbing Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities.

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The plan calls for an end to military nuclear development on Iranian soil, restrictions on ballistic missile programmes, and a halt to the spread of militant activity across the region.

Israel has maintained that any long-term stability hinges on addressing these core concerns, even as diplomatic efforts continue through multiple channels.