PAF escorts Iranian negotiators after Islamabad talks amid security concerns

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) escorted Iranian negotiators back home after last weekend’s inconclusive talks with the United States, launching a major aerial security operation amid concerns of a potential threat, according to sources.

Around two dozen fighter jets were deployed for the mission, along with airborne warning and control system aircraft to provide aerial surveillance and ensure the safe passage of the Iranian delegation from Islamabad, officials familiar with the operation said.

One source indicated that similar arrangements could be made for future rounds of negotiations if requested, adding that Pakistani aircraft would otherwise receive delegations upon entry into national airspace.

A third source involved in the talks said preparations were already underway for another possible round of negotiations, expected as early as this weekend.

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A regional diplomat said Pakistan insisted on providing the escort after Iranian officials raised concerns over possible risks during travel, including a “hypothetical” threat perception.

“When the talks failed, the Iranians were wary that things had not gone right. It was their suspicion that they might be targeted,” a security source said.

The operation marked a significant escalation in security protocol, reflecting the sensitive nature of the diplomatic engagement and regional tensions.

According to one official, the mission included the deployment of Chinese-made J-10 fighter jets, considered among the most advanced aircraft in the PAF fleet.

The Iranian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, was returning after participating in high-level talks with US officials in Islamabad — the first such engagement in more than a decade.

Sources said Pakistan took responsibility for the delegation’s security beyond its own airspace, underscoring Islamabad’s role as a key mediator in the ongoing diplomatic efforts.

A regional diplomat noted that while Iranian officials did not formally request the escort, they did not rule out the possibility of external threats, prompting Pakistan to proceed with precautionary measures.

The development comes amid heightened tensions following weeks of conflict involving the United States, Iran, and Israel, with ceasefire efforts still fragile despite ongoing diplomatic engagement.

Despite the lack of a breakthrough in the Islamabad talks, officials from all sides have indicated that dialogue remains ongoing, with Pakistan continuing its efforts to facilitate further negotiations aimed at de-escalation and a potential peace agreement.