Hebrew → English transcript

Yes, Tali. Asian Pakistan, the Muslim and nuclear state,

which usually does not make the headlines here, is emerging as a key player in the

negotiations. The reason is that

unlike the other regional players who meddled in the pot,

Pakistan has managed to come across as very neutral,

maintaining relations of trust both with Washington and with Tehran.

It has outflanked the Qataris, the Egyptians and the Turks,

who got quite entangled behind.

In the Iranian context, it has quite a few interests because of the geography.

The two share a long, 900- kilometer border,

and have historical ties on the cultural and religious level,

significant parts of the Baluchi minority that lives on both sides of the border,

who aspire to independence and support armed rebel organizations.

Pakistanis fear that instability in this sphere in Iran

will spill over into their territory as well.

In the American context, very close relations

have developed between the Pakistani leadership and the American administration.

Two figures are responsible for this: the powerful Pakistani chief of staff,

Asim Munir, who enjoys appreciation Trump’s own rabbi,

and he is also strengthening good ties with Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.

And also the prime minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif,

who managed to tie up all the loose ends.

Just yesterday, that same Sharif spoke by phone with the Saudi crown prince,

Bin Salman, apparently

to show the kingdom that entered into a defense pact with him

a few months ago that Pakistan is safeguarding his and the Gulf states’ interests.

The result is that it clearly puts Pakistan on the regional map.

It is expected to host the direct talks between the United States

and Iran, and for now,

it is the main beneficiary. Back to you, Tali.