From JF-17s To Strait Of Hormuz: 5 Ways Pakistan’s High-Profile Deals Have Flopped

Last Updated:April 07, 2026, 1:34 PM IST

The instances reveal a longstanding trend—Pakistan frequently leverages media hype and high-profile announcements to signal influence without delivering measurable outcomes

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif (Reuters)

As the war in Iran escalates and tensions in the Persian Gulf strain global energy and trade flows, Pakistan has sought to position itself as a diplomatic and economic player in the region. However, multiple recent announcements by Pakistani officials and state-aligned media suggest a pattern of ambitious promises with limited follow-through, raising questions about the country’s actual influence amid the crisis.

Since early this year, Pakistani media and officials have repeatedly promoted high-profile initiatives to bolster economic and defence ties with the United States and regional partners. Analysts say many of these announcements appear “planted” to create the perception of influence rather than reflecting concrete progress.

Here are five ways India’s neighbour has been trying to rewrite the narrative:

1. JF-17 Fighter Jet Deals: Pakistani media outlets reported international interest in JF-17 fighter jets in exchange for loans and a potential sale to Bangladesh. However, independent verification or signed contracts are absent, and sources outside Pakistan have not confirmed the discussions.

2. Roosevelt Hotel MoU: In February, Pakistan signed a memorandum of understanding with the US General Services Administration for potential development of property it owns, including the Roosevelt Hotel. The media framed the deal as a Trump-era economic boost with involvement from real estate executive Steve Witkoff, but no substantive progress has been reported.

3. Cryptocurrency Partnership: Islamabad announced a collaboration with SC Financial Technologies, affiliated with World Liberty Financial and linked to the Trump family. While highlighted in domestic media, the venture has made little discernible headway since its announcement.

4. Mediation in West Asia: Pakistani officials have attempted to position the country as a mediator in the ongoing Gulf conflict, planting stories in Reuters and the Financial Times. Multiple reports suggested that US Vice-President JD Vance would visit Islamabad to facilitate talks. However, no such visits have occurred.

5. Hormuz Shipping Claims: Pakistan recently claimed that Iran would allow 20 Pakistan-flagged vessels safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. In reality, Islamabad only maintains a handful of ships in the corridor, and efforts to secure additional vessels from other traders appear largely symbolic, highlighting a mismatch between announcements and practical capability.

Observers say these episodes underscore a longstanding trend: Pakistan frequently leverages media hype and high-profile announcements to signal influence, particularly to the West, without delivering measurable outcomes. Analysts argue this approach may be aimed at maintaining strategic relevance amid regional turmoil but risks damaging credibility with international partners.

With the Persian Gulf under increasing strain from missile strikes, petrochemical disruptions, and shipping risks, regional actors are seeking reliable partners. Pakistan’s ambitious announcements may attract headlines, but without follow-through, whether in defence contracts, economic deals, or mediation, the country’s strategic leverage remains uncertain.

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