U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly held talks with General Asim Munir, the powerful chief of the Pakistan Army, amid considerations about America’s involvement in Israel’s airstrikes against Iran.
Foreign media outlets, including Bloomberg and Reuters, reported on the 19th (local time) that President Trump held a private meeting with General Munir the day before in Washington. The agenda reportedly included the situation in Iran.
General Munir is a figure recently promoted to the highest rank in the Pakistan Army, five-star general, in recognition of his contributions during the recent military confrontation with India, and is a significant influence not only in military matters but also in core policy decisions related to diplomacy and economics.
Immediately after the meeting, President Trump stated at the White House, "Pakistan knows Iran very well," and added, "They (Pakistan) are monitoring the situation, and he agreed with my opinion." Bloomberg reported that this could be interpreted as Trump discussing the Iranian attacks with General Munir. Reuters also reported that the Iranian issue was part of the meeting's background.
This meeting is garnering particular attention as the U.S. is reviewing the possibility of a direct strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities. Recently, President Trump has made tough statements demanding "unconditional surrender" from Iran and is contemplating the level of military response.
Political scientist Hassan Askari Rizvi noted, "It is unprecedented for the incumbent Chief of the Pakistan Army to have a private meeting with the U.S. President," adding, "This can be viewed as a special message from President Trump."
Some speculate that Pakistan could play a mediator role in the conflict between Israel and Iran. In fact, Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar recently indicated, "If Israel refrains from additional attacks, Iran would be willing to enter negotiations," signaling a willingness to mediate.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also urged, "The international community must take immediate action to stop this war."
Indrani Bagchi, head of the Ananta Centre think tank in India, analyzed, "Historically, the Pakistan Army has maintained close cooperative relations with the U.S., and the U.S. has consistently sought adjustments from Pakistan during regional security crises," stating, "The Trump administration also appears to be seeking new benefits for cooperation with Pakistan."