Pakistan on Tuesday strongly denied reports about Iranian military aircraft in Pakistan, saying the claims were misleading and aimed at damaging ongoing diplomatic efforts in the Middle East.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded after a US media report claimed that Pakistan had quietly allowed Iranian military aircraft to use its airbases during recent regional negotiations. According to the report, several Iranian planes allegedly arrived at Nur Khan Air Base after a ceasefire announcement between Iran and the United States earlier this year.
The report also claimed that one of the aircraft was an Iranian Air Force RC-130 reconnaissance plane. However, the Foreign Office rejected the allegations and clarified that the aircraft arrivals were linked to diplomatic coordination during the ceasefire period.
Officials explained that during the first phase of the Islamabad Talks, aircraft from both Iran and the United States landed in Pakistan to transport diplomats, security teams and administrative staff connected to the dialogue process.
The Foreign Office said some aircraft and support personnel remained in the country temporarily as preparations continued for possible future negotiations. It added that the presence of Iranian military aircraft in Pakistan had no connection with military operations or any secret contingency arrangement.
Pakistan also stressed that formal negotiations may not have resumed yet, but diplomatic contacts between the countries are continuing. The statement mentioned recent visits by the Iranian foreign minister to Islamabad as part of ongoing communication efforts.
Rejecting the controversy, the Foreign Office said Pakistan has consistently acted as a neutral and responsible facilitator focused on dialogue, de-escalation and regional stability. Officials added that the country remains committed to supporting peace efforts and maintaining transparency with all parties involved.
The statement described the media report as sensationalised and said such claims could harm efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region.