Afghanistan Conflict Clouds Pakistan's Iran Mediation Role: Two Fronts, One Problem

• Pakistan aims to host US-Iran peace talks but faces escalating conflict with Afghanistan, undermining its credibility as a neutral venue.
• The choice of Pakistan as mediator was initially backed due to its ties with both the US and Iran, historical diplomatic role, and strategic geography.
• Deteriorating security along Pakistan's western border with Afghanistan, described as an "open war," raises concerns about stability and security for high-stakes negotiations.
• Fresh fighting erupted between Afghanistan and Pakistan after a temporary Eid ceasefire, killing civilians and highlighting ongoing border tensions.
• Analysts warn Pakistan is "walking a tightrope" with competing regional pressures, risking a multi-front security squeeze with an active Afghanistan front, volatile Iran border, and internal militant threats.