Tehran Alleges "Double Game" by Islamabad Amid Strategic Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz

Thahran — High-level intelligence sources suggest a sharp deterioration in relations between Iran and Pakistan, as Tehran reportedly grows increasingly disillusioned with Islamabad’s role in the ongoing standoff between Iran and the United States. Despite Pakistan’s public positioning as a mediator, Iranian officials now view Islamabad’s recent maneuvers around the strategically sensitive Strait of Hormuz as a "calculated betrayal."

The Strait of Hormuz Dispute

The crux of the tension lies in maritime movements within the Strait of Hormuz. Intelligence reports indicate that Tehran had previously granted limited passage to ten Pakistani-flagged oil tankers as a gesture of goodwill toward a fellow Muslim nation, despite tightened regional controls.

However, Iranian establishment circles now believe these vessels were used to coordinate with or benefit U.S. naval interests. This sentiment was exacerbated by U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent claim that ten U.S. ships were permitted passage—a move Tehran initially viewed as a diplomatic opening, but now interprets as a breach of trust facilitated by Pakistani coordination.

Failed Mediation and "Shuttle Diplomacy"

While Islamabad has attempted to position itself as a diplomatic bridge—proposing a 15-point U.S.-led ceasefire framework to Tehran—the Iranian leadership has largely dismissed these efforts.

• Rejection of Framework: Tehran has downplayed Pakistan’s mediation, viewing the proposed terms as heavily aligned with Washington’s interests.

• Accusations of Insincerity: Senior intelligence sources describe Pakistan’s behavior as "deliberate duplicity," suggesting that Islamabad is providing strategic coverage for U.S. objectives while maintaining nominal access to Iranian diplomatic channels.

Broader Geopolitical Context

Tehran’s suspicion is further fueled by Pakistan’s deep-rooted military and strategic alliance with Saudi Arabia, Iran’s primary regional rival. Analysts within the Iranian establishment increasingly view Pakistan’s "balancing act" as a structural tilt toward the Gulf-U.S. axis, particularly regarding defense cooperation and coordination within United Nations forums.

Conclusion

The prevailing assessment in Tehran is clear: Pakistan’s neutrality is seen as a facade. By attempting to reap benefits from both sides without committing to either, Islamabad has crossed what Tehran considers a "red line," potentially compromising its future role as a regional intermediary.