Israeli strikes and US troop buildup put Pakistan’s peacemaker role under pressure

29 Mar 2026 — 18 Apr 2026

The conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran escalated rapidly, with initial strikes leading to a significant increase in gas prices, economic disruption, and a diplomatic effort by Pakistan to mediate a peace agreement. The situation developed into a full-blown war, with US ground troops deployed to the Middle East and Iran responding with force, before a two-week ceasefire was agreed upon. Following the ceasefire, negotiations between the US and Iran continued, but a lasting peace deal has yet to be reached, with the US imposing a blockade on Iranian ports and threatening further action. The conflict has had far-reaching economic consequences, with oil prices fluctuating wildly and global markets remaining on edge.