Pakistan has opened six border crossings with Iran in a move widely seen as an attempt to bypass US-led pressure and maritime restrictions on Tehran. The crossings are now facilitating a surge in overland trade between the two countries.
According to reports, more than 3,000 cargo containers are already moving into Iran via these land routes, providing a critical economic lifeline at a time when Iran is facing growing isolation and strain.
The move comes even as (Sunni) Pakistan positions itself as a key mediator between Washington and (Shiite) Tehran, hosting and facilitating negotiations between the sides.
Notably, this is happening at the same time that the US—under Donald Trump—has publicly praised Pakistan for its role in “helping” advance negotiations with Iran, highlighting a growing contradiction between Islamabad’s diplomatic role and its actions on the ground.
