US President Donald Trump has confirmed discussing Iran-Israel tensions during his meeting with Pakistan’s Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir at the White House, stating that Pakistan “knows Iran better than we do.”
Speaking to reporters after the high-level interaction, Trump highlighted Pakistan’s strategic importance in the region, particularly concerning Tehran. “We spoke about the Iran-Israel issue. Pakistan understands Iran better than us — they’re a key player in regional peace,” he affirmed.
This rare one-on-one meeting, held in the Cabinet Room, was followed by a luncheon hosted by Trump in the Army Chief’s honor. A White House spokesperson confirmed that the luncheon was arranged to acknowledge Pakistan’s role in regional stability and to recognize General Munir’s efforts in de-escalating tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors, Pakistan and India.
“It’s an honor to meet Field Marshal Asim Munir. I thanked him for not letting things spiral into war,” Trump said, referencing recent cross-border tensions that were resolved through diplomatic means.
The two leaders also discussed potential avenues for economic cooperation, with Trump confirming that a trade agreement involving Pakistan and India is currently under negotiation.
“We’re in early talks on trade — Pakistan’s concerns are being heard,” he stated.
According to diplomatic sources, General Munir is also slated to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pat Hegseth in the coming days. These engagements are being viewed in Islamabad as a significant diplomatic achievement, particularly as they signal a revival in US-Pakistan strategic dialogue after a period of relative quiet.
When asked about potential diplomatic outcomes of the meeting, Trump remarked, “General Asim has played a strong role in lowering Pak-India tensions. We appreciate his leadership.”
Earlier, in a brief interaction with reporters, President Trump commended the Pakistani Army Chief, describing him as “an influential figure who played a critical role in de-escalating tensions between Pakistan and India.” The former US president also reiterated his admiration for Pakistan, calling it “an important nuclear country” and praising the “good people of Pakistan.”
“This man [Field Marshal Munir] has been extremely effective in preventing war from Pakistan’s side,” Mr. Trump emphasized.
The luncheon provided a unique opportunity for both sides to exchange perspectives on crucial security matters, with a particular focus on the Iran-Israel conflict.
According to senior Pakistani lawmaker Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, the White House was keen to hear Field Marshal Munir’s assessment of the Middle East crisis, especially its potential impact on regional stability.
“President Trump does not want Pakistan-India tensions to escalate further, and he will seek Field Marshal Munir’s insight into the Iran-Israel conflict as part of shaping US policy in the region,” Senator Mushahid stated during an appearance on a private news channel.
He also noted that recent strategic developments — particularly Pakistan’s claimed “decisive victory” in a five-day military confrontation with India — have prompted Washington to re-evaluate its perception of Islamabad’s regional role.
