As Pakistan hosts high-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran, sections of Indian media have faced criticism for promoting what observers describe as misleading narratives while downplaying Islamabad’s diplomatic role in easing regional tensions.
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Delegations led by Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and US Vice President JD Vance arrived in Pakistan for talks aimed at building on a two-week ceasefire announced by US President Donald Trump following weeks of conflict.
Despite widespread international support for Pakistan’s mediation efforts, some Indian television channels — often seen as aligned with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party — have continued to broadcast critical narratives about Islamabad, drawing backlash online and from global commentators.
Short video clips circulating on social media show foreign analysts and diplomats challenging Indian anchors during live broadcasts, with several exchanges going viral.
In one instance, Indian anchor Arnab Goswami was seen interrupting China-based analyst Victor Gao after the latter credited Pakistan for facilitating dialogue and creating conditions for constructive engagement.
In another case, a broadcast by India Today suggested that Vice President Vance might cancel his visit to Pakistan — a claim that did not materialise.
Similarly, a discussion on Times Now featured anchor Madhavdas G raising concerns over the US vice president’s security, prompting a sharp rebuttal from US diplomat Jeffrey Gunter.
Gunter dismissed the claims as baseless and criticised the panel for turning a serious diplomatic issue into what he described as a “Pakistan-versus-India circus.”
He further admonished the participants, likening the debate to a classroom dispute and warning that such conduct undermines the seriousness of international diplomacy.
While Indian media narratives drew criticism, officials in New Delhi appeared cautious as global leaders broadly welcomed Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue and supporting efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.
