Pakistan's Munir held Trump call before Iran visit: sources

The undisclosed conversation between Pakistan's chief military figure and Trump took place ahead of a visit to the Iranian capital, according to people familiar with the matter. The timing of the contact underscores Pakistan's delicate balancing act between Washington and Tehran amid escalating US-Iran tensions.

The call occurred as the Trump administration prepared to implement comprehensive economic sanctions targeting Iran and nations conducting trade with it. Pakistan, which has historically maintained diplomatic ties with both countries while managing its own strategic interests, has faced increasing pressure to navigate the competing demands of major powers.

Pakistan's engagement with Iran has drawn scrutiny from Washington, which views Tehran as a regional security threat. The country's military establishment, which wields considerable influence over foreign policy decisions, has sought to maintain strategic flexibility in dealing with neighbouring Iran while preserving its critical relationship with the United States.

The revelation of the Trump-Munir conversation demonstrates Pakistan's efforts to keep key stakeholders informed of its diplomatic movements during a period of heightened US-Iran antagonism. Pakistani officials have not publicly commented on the nature or substance of discussions during the Tehran visit.