Shifting US goals, intensifying strikes risks widening into a catastrophic regional war: Masood Khan
Islamabad: Ambassador Masood Khan, former Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, China and the United Nations, and former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, has warned that the rapidly evolving Iran conflict is entering a highly dangerous phase, marked by shifting strategic objectives, intensifying military operations, and an increasing risk of regional spillover.
Assessing the situation, Khan noted that the United States has articulated multiple, and at times shifting, war objectives—ranging from dismantling Iran’s nuclear programme to targeting its military-industrial capacity. He observed that these evolving “goalposts” have created uncertainty on the battlefield and in diplomatic circles, complicating efforts toward de-escalation. “At times, victory is claimed; at others, the conflict is projected to continue for weeks,” he remarked, underscoring the fluidity of the situation.
Khan expressed serious concern over the targeting of civilian and critical infrastructure, including power plants, bridges, petrochemical facilities, and medical institutions. Despite earlier indications of restraint, attacks have intensified, raising fears of reciprocal escalation. He cautioned that if such strikes persist, Iran may retaliate by targeting key installations across the Gulf region, including energy and desalination facilities, thereby widening the conflict’s scope and impact.
Highlighting the strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz, Khan described it as the most critical flashpoint in the current crisis. He noted ongoing diplomatic contacts, particularly between Iran and Oman, aimed at preventing further disruption to maritime navigation and global energy flows. However, competing proposals—some invoking provisions under the United Nations Charter—remain contested among major powers, including China and Russia.
Khan also raised alarm over strikes near sensitive nuclear facilities, warning that repeated attacks could trigger far-reaching environmental and security consequences, drawing concern from international bodies. He emphasized that such developments heighten the risk of a broader and potentially nuclear confrontation.
Addressing the military dimension, Khan indicated that preparations for possible ground operations, including deployment of specialized forces and strategic assets, suggest that escalation options remain under consideration. At the same time, Iran’s asymmetric capabilities—ranging from missile systems to strategic leverage in maritime domains—have introduced a complex balance into the conflict.
He further noted that Israel’s broader strategic calculus and reluctance toward early conflict resolution add another layer of complexity, while parallel diplomatic initiatives by Pakistan, China, Oman, Russia, and the European Union continue to seek pathways for de-escalation.
Concluding, Khan stressed that the coming days will be decisive. He reaffirmed that Pakistan, through its proactive diplomacy and coordination with international partners, remains committed to facilitating dialogue and preventing a further descent into a wider and more destructive regional war.