Pakistan drew a clear line against the use of military force or coercion against Iran, emphasizing that dialogue remains the only productive path forward. The stance comes amid heightened Western pressure on Tehran, alongside a continued US naval buildup in the Gulf and fresh European sanctions.
The message from Islamabad was delivered through top-tier diplomatic channels and official statements, including a phone call between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, exchanges between the two foreign ministers, and remarks issued by the Foreign Office during its weekly media briefing. These interactions underscored Pakistan’s position that it seeks peace and does not wish to be drawn into conflict.
Prime Minister and Foreign Ministers Stress Dialogue
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, PM Shehbaz emphasized the need for sustained dialogue. He said regular diplomatic engagement was essential to promote peace, security, and development across the region. He also underlined the risks of escalation at a time when regional economies remain fragile.
Separately, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The Foreign Office said Mr Dar shared concerns over the evolving situation. He reiterated that diplomacy was the only viable way forward. He also highlighted Pakistan’s preference for peaceful solutions rooted in international law.
Meanwhile, officials noted that Pakistan has maintained close contact with Iran. These exchanges aim to reduce misunderstandings and prevent miscalculations. Islamabad believes open channels can help defuse tensions before they spiral further.
Foreign Office Rejects Sanctions and External Pressure
At the weekly media briefing, Foreign Office spokesman Tahir Andrabi expanded on Pakistan’s position. He said Pakistan has always advocated peace to resolve disputes. He added that the region could not afford war or prolonged turmoil. According to him, conflict would stall economic development and hurt regional prosperity.
He also made Pakistan’s opposition clear. Islamabad rejects the use of force, sanctions, and external interference in Iran’s internal affairs. Furthermore, he said Pakistan supports diplomatic efforts grounded in international law. He cited the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
The spokesman also referred to a recent UN Human Rights Council resolution on Iran. The resolution opposed the use of force and reaffirmed the UN Charter. He said Pakistan subscribes to these principles and will continue to do so.
Rising Global Tensions and Calls for Mediation
Pakistan’s remarks came amid sharp developments abroad. The European Union unanimously designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation. It also imposed fresh sanctions over human rights concerns and Iran’s support for Russia in Ukraine.
At the same time, the United States expanded its military presence in the Middle East. Washington deployed the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, additional destroyers, and thousands of troops. Analysts described the build-up as the largest in years.
Iran responded with strong warnings. Army chief Amir Hatami vowed a crushing response to any attack. State media reported the induction of strategic drones into combat units.
Meanwhile, several countries called for calm and restraint. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman urged the initiation of a peace dialogue and emphasized that they would not allow any space for attacks on Iran. Turkey offered to facilitate dialogue between Washington and Tehran, while Russia stressed that any use of force would exacerbate chaos. Egypt also renewed discussions on the nuclear issue.
