‘We’re Watching Closely’: US Senator Rick Scott Warns Pakistan After Shehbaz Sharif’s Tribute to Ayatollah Khamenei

Fresh diplomatic tensions have emerged after US Senator Rick Scott criticised Pakistan over Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Tehran for the funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

In a strongly worded post on X, the Republican senator accused Islamabad of playing a “double role” while questioning its credibility in discussions related to the ongoing US-Iran diplomatic process.

Rick Scott Questions Pakistan’s Role

Scott said Pakistan could not be viewed as a neutral mediator, pointing to its past record and Sharif’s public tribute to the late Iranian leader.

In his post, the senator wrote that the United States should remember “who Pakistan really is,” referring to historical concerns over terrorism and religious persecution. He also criticised Sharif for praising Khamenei, whom he described in highly critical terms.

Scott further compared Pakistan’s role to that of Qatar, stating that Islamabad was no better placed to mediate between Washington and Tehran.

He concluded his message with a warning directed at Pakistan, saying, “We’re watching closely.”

Shehbaz Sharif Pays Tribute in Tehran

Scott’s remarks followed Shehbaz Sharif’s attendance at Khamenei’s funeral in the Iranian capital.

During the ceremony, the Pakistani Prime Minister described Khamenei as “a great scholar and leader” who would be remembered by millions of Muslims. He also emphasised the close relationship between Pakistan and Iran, saying the two neighbouring countries would continue to stand together under all circumstances.

Sharif’s comments have drawn international attention, particularly as Washington and Tehran remain engaged in delicate diplomatic efforts over Iran’s nuclear programme.

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Thousands Attend Khamenei’s Funeral

The funeral witnessed massive crowds gathering across Tehran, where mourners dressed in black participated in a large public procession.

Khamenei’s flag-draped coffin, along with the coffins of several family members who were reportedly killed during an airstrike at the beginning of the recent conflict involving Israel and the United States, was carried through the streets as authorities projected the event as a symbol of national unity.

The ceremony also saw anti-US and anti-Israel slogans from sections of the crowd. Some mourners carried placards calling for retaliation, while effigies of US President Donald Trump were also displayed.

Nuclear Talks Remain Uncertain

The diplomatic row comes at a sensitive time, with negotiations between the United States and Iran still at an impasse.

Talks aimed at securing a long-term agreement over Iran’s nuclear programme are expected to resume after the funeral ceremonies conclude. However, major disagreements continue over uranium enrichment, regional security, and issues related to the Strait of Hormuz.

With public rhetoric intensifying on both sides, the path toward a diplomatic breakthrough remains uncertain, while international observers continue to monitor developments closely.