Washington DC

Former US National Security Advisor Michael Flynn has raised doubts over Pakistan’s credibility as a neutral mediator in potential peace talks between Iran and the United States, citing reports that Islamabad may have facilitated the transfer of Chinese-supplied missiles to Tehran.

Flynn, who served under former US President Donald Trump, was reacting to claims circulating on social media that missiles allegedly used by Iran against a US aircraft carrier were supplied by China and routed through Pakistan.

“If this report about CCP-supplied missiles through Pakistan to Iran is true, this is an act of war,” Flynn said in a post on X, adding that both China and Pakistan should be “put on notice” if the allegations are confirmed.

He also questioned Pakistan’s suitability as a diplomatic intermediary, stating, “What does this say about Pakistan being the honest broker in negotiating a ceasefire or longer-term peace deal between Iran and the United States? Someone needs a reality check.”

Flynn’s remarks come amid a recently announced two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, at a time when tensions in West Asia remain high.

He emphasised that the United States must take a decisive approach to the ongoing conflict. “All wars are costly, but once engaged, we must either win decisively or extract ourselves in a way that allows us to reset for what could be a prolonged conflict,” he said.

Cautioning against premature optimism, Flynn noted that the situation remains fluid. “This is not over until all sides say it is and respond accordingly,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has reported that China is assisting Iran in rebuilding its missile capabilities following US and Israeli strikes targeting its military infrastructure.

According to the ISW, multiple shipments of missile fuel precursors have reportedly been sent by China to Iran since the start of the conflict, potentially undermining efforts to degrade Tehran’s ballistic missile programme.

Iran has been attempting to restore its missile systems after sustained strikes since late February. Reports suggest that some underground missile facilities have been repaired and brought back into operation within hours of being targeted.

Last month, Iranian forces claimed to have targeted the USS Abraham Lincoln using coastal cruise missiles. Iranian state media outlets reported the operation, though independent verification remains limited.

The ISW also noted that while Iran may be restoring access to missile launchers, broader system degradation and coordination challenges continue to affect operational efficiency.

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Flynn further warned about domestic security risks, stating that potential threats to the US homeland from Iran and other actors remain “very real” and require heightened vigilance from federal law enforcement agencies.