Pakistani Airbase Allegedly Used To Shield Iranian Aircraft From US Strikes
Pakistan allegedly allowed Iranian military aircraft to use the Nur Khan Airbase during the recent tensions between Iran and the United States, according to a report citing American officials. The claims have sparked fresh debate over Islamabad’s role in the regional conflict while Pakistan publicly projected itself as a diplomatic intermediary between Tehran and Washington.
According to the report, Iran reportedly shifted several aircraft, including military assets, to Pakistan shortly after a ceasefire announcement made by former US President Donald Trump in early April. Among the aircraft allegedly stationed at the airbase was an Iranian Air Force RC-130 reconnaissance aircraft, a surveillance variant of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules. Officials quoted in the report claimed the move appeared aimed at protecting Iran’s aviation assets from possible American strikes as tensions escalated in the region.
The report further stated that some Iranian civilian aircraft were also moved to neighbouring Afghanistan during the conflict. However, a senior Pakistani official reportedly denied allegations involving the Nur Khan Airbase, saying such activity could not remain hidden due to the base’s location in a densely populated urban area. Zabihullah Mujahid also dismissed reports suggesting Iranian aircraft had been relocated to Afghanistan.
The issue gained political attention after US Senator Lindsey Graham reacted to the report and stated that if the claims were accurate, it could lead to a reassessment of Pakistan’s role as a mediator between Iran, the United States and other regional stakeholders. The report highlighted Pakistan’s delicate diplomatic balancing act as it maintains ties with Washington while also attempting to avoid tensions with Tehran and China.
Regional tensions have continued despite the ceasefire announcement, with reports of clashes and drone attacks near the Strait of Hormuz further increasing instability in West Asia. The latest claims regarding the alleged use of Pakistani airbases have added another geopolitical dimension to the ongoing Iran-US tensions.
