As fears of a possible US military strike against Iran grow, Pakistan has stepped in with a flurry of diplomatic contacts aimed at defusing the escalating crisis. On Thursday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke by phone with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, reaffirming Islamabad’s call for restraint and dialogue at a time of mounting regional anxiety.
The prime minister’s outreach followed earlier conversations between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi. These engagements came amid renewed tensions between Tehran and Washington, after the United States deployed additional warships to the region and President Donald Trump warned Iran to reach a nuclear deal or face consequences.
Islamabad is said to be deeply concerned by the situation and has quietly intensified diplomatic efforts to help cool tempers. According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, the two leaders exchanged views on the fast-evolving regional environment, with PM Shehbaz stressing that sustained dialogue and diplomacy were the only viable paths to peace, security, and development.
Both sides also highlighted the close and fraternal relationship between Pakistan and Iran, rooted in shared history, culture, and faith. They agreed to maintain regular high-level contacts and strengthen cooperation through existing bilateral mechanisms.
Earlier, the Foreign Office said FM Dar had expressed similar concerns to his Iranian counterpart, underscoring Pakistan’s consistent opposition to the use of force and unilateral actions. Officials reiterated that another conflict in the Middle East would have devastating consequences for regional stability and economic growth.
Pakistan, they stressed, will continue engaging all relevant parties and international forums to advocate peace, warning that the region simply cannot afford another war.
