Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held urgent telephone conversations with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as tensions surged across the Middle East. He strongly condemned what he described as a serious and dangerous regional escalation following Israeli and US strikes on Iran.
The prime minister expressed deep concern over the widening conflict. He also assured both Gulf leaders of Pakistan’s full solidarity during this critical period.
Call with Saudi Crown Prince
During his conversation with the Saudi crown prince, PM Shehbaz condemned the escalation triggered by the Israeli attack on Iran. He also expressed concern over subsequent strikes affecting Gulf countries.
Furthermore, he reaffirmed that Pakistan would always stand with Saudi Arabia under all circumstances. He emphasized brotherly ties and longstanding cooperation between the two nations.
In addition, the prime minister stated that Pakistan is ready to play a constructive role to promote peace. He expressed hope that the holy month of Ramadan would bring calm and stability to the region.
Condolences to the UAE Leadership
Separately, PM Shehbaz spoke with the UAE president to convey Pakistan’s strong condemnation of the unfolding crisis. He expressed sorrow over the death of a Pakistani national in Abu Dhabi during the missile attacks.
The prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s solidarity with the UAE and its people. He assured continued support during these difficult times.
Diplomatic Engagement with Iran
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. During the discussion, Dar condemned the attacks on Iran and called for an immediate halt to escalating tensions.
Both leaders reviewed the rapidly evolving situation in Iran and the broader region. Dar stressed the urgent need to resume diplomatic engagement. He urged de-escalation through peaceful and negotiated means.
Regional Escalation Intensifies
The crisis deepened after Israel and the United States launched strikes aimed at destroying Iran’s missile capabilities. In response, Iran fired missiles targeting Gulf states and Israel.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stated that it targeted US military assets in the Gulf, including the US Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. Explosions and air defense activity were reported in several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Iraq, and Israel.
Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, and Jordan confirmed intercepting incoming missiles. However, one person was reported killed in Abu Dhabi.
In Iran, a strike on a school reportedly killed 24 people. Meanwhile, Israel deployed search and rescue teams following reports of fallen projectiles. Smoke was seen rising over parts of Tehran amid heavy security deployment.
Pakistan Calls for Calm and Stability
As tensions continue, Pakistan has positioned itself as a voice for restraint and diplomacy. The government has emphasized solidarity with Gulf partners while advocating immediate de-escalation.
Given the volatile environment, Islamabad continues to monitor developments closely. Leaders have stressed that dialogue remains the only viable path toward restoring regional peace and stability.
