Pakistan's Delicate Balancing Act Amidst US-Iran Tensions

As Pakistan attempts to mediate between the United States and Iran, it faces rising tensions within its Shiite community, which is mourning the loss of Iranian clerics. The army chief's efforts to prevent unrest highlight the delicate balance the government must maintain to avoid sectarian violence while fostering international relations. With the Shiite population feeling a deep connection to Iran, the situation remains precarious as officials monitor developments closely.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 20, 2026, 22:40 IST

Pakistan's Role as Mediator

In an effort to mediate between the United States and Iran, Pakistan is facing internal challenges as it seeks to quell rising discontent among its Shiite population. This minority group, comprising around 35 million individuals, has expressed profound grief over the recent killings of prominent Iranian clerics, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, due to US-Israeli military actions. For many Shiites, Khamenei represents not only a political leader but also a spiritual figure.

On March 18, shortly before Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, took on the role of intermediary between Washington and Tehran, he convened a meeting with leading Shiite clerics. The purpose was to avert potential violent protests following the news of Khamenei's death, which had already incited unrest. The army chief emphasized that any violence in Pakistan stemming from foreign incidents would be unacceptable, as reported by the military's media division.

Attendees of the meeting described a tense atmosphere, with some clerics feeling their allegiance to Pakistan was being questioned, while others perceived the army chief's efforts as a means to maintain peace. Despite receiving commendations from President Trump for its mediation initiatives, including hosting discussions in Islamabad and contributing troops for regional stability, the ongoing conflict poses significant challenges domestically.

For many Shiites, the situation is deeply personal. Across Karachi and other cities, gatherings and rallies have emerged to mourn Khamenei and express solidarity with his successor, Mojtaba Khamenei. Some clerics have framed the conflict as a religious battle, drawing parallels to the historic Battle of Karbala. Syed Ali Owais, a 30-year-old Shiite activist, stated, “We are Pakistani, but when our religious leaders are attacked, we cannot remain silent.”

Syeda Fatima Batool, a 25-year-old doctor from Karachi, reflected on her upbringing surrounded by Khamenei's imagery in various public spaces. She remarked, “Although he was the head of state in Iran, I, along with millions of other Shiite Muslims, regard him as my spiritual and moral leader.”

Pakistani officials are concerned that prolonged conflict could reignite historical sectarian strife. Shiites have historically faced violence from Sunni extremist groups, and there are fears that disillusioned young Shiites might resort to militancy or target American interests. The government is navigating a complex situation, striving to maintain relations with both the United States and Saudi Arabia while addressing the Shiite community's growing frustrations about their dual identity as Pakistani citizens and Shiite Muslims linked to Iran.

While there have been no significant protests or violent incidents thus far, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. The ongoing display of Iranian leadership portraits in Shiite neighborhoods of Karachi serves as a silent acknowledgment of the enduring respect and connection the Shiite community holds for Iranian leaders and their families.