Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met US Vice President JD Vance on April 11 during talks between Washington and Tehran, as Saudi Arabia confirmed the deployment of Pakistani air force assets under a bilateral defence pact, underscoring Islamabad’s delicate balancing act, according to Al Jazeera.

Riyadh said the deployment to King Abdulaziz Air Base includes fighter and support aircraft to boost joint readiness.

The move highlights Pakistan’s dual role as mediator in US-Iran tensions while remaining committed to Saudi Arabia under the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement signed in 2025.

A Pakistani official said Islamabad remains engaged with all sides and is willing to host further talks, though a US naval blockade of Iran and a ceasefire due to expire on April 22 could complicate efforts.

Analysts told Al Jazeera the deployment is likely meant as a deterrent, but warned Pakistan’s position could become untenable if hostilities resume.