Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has conveyed profound grief over the martyrdom of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, highlighting the strong bonds of solidarity between Pakistan and the Iranian nation during this difficult time. In a heartfelt statement, the Prime Minister underscored the sorrow felt by both the government and the people of Pakistan, reaffirming their unwavering support for Iran as it navigates this tragic loss.
Shehbaz Sharif also voiced serious apprehension regarding recent breaches of international laws and diplomatic protocols. He emphasized that it is a fundamental tenet of international relations that heads of state and government must be protected from targeted attacks, underscoring the gravity of the situation. The Prime Minister prayed for patience and resilience for the Iranian people, recognizing the profound impact of this event on regional stability and the wider Muslim world.
In light of the escalating tensions following the martyrdom of Ayatollah Khamenei, which reportedly occurred amid attacks attributed to the United States and Israel, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has decided to postpone his scheduled visit to Russia. The trip, which was to include a high-level delegation, was intended to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss various strategic issues. However, Pakistan has officially informed Moscow that the current circumstances make the visit untenable at this moment, reflecting Islamabad’s cautious approach amid the unfolding regional crisis.
Concurrently, the Prime Minister has called for a crucial meeting to assess the evolving security landscape in the region. This gathering will bring together senior military and intelligence officials to evaluate recent developments in neighboring Afghanistan, Iran, and other key countries. The discussions will focus on Pakistan’s strategic posture and the formulation of a coherent policy response to ensure national and regional security during these uncertain times.
Furthermore, the meeting chaired by Shehbaz Sharif will determine Pakistan’s official representation at the funeral ceremonies of Ayatollah Khamenei. This decision carries significant diplomatic weight, as it will reflect Pakistan’s stance and solidarity with Iran amidst a highly sensitive geopolitical environment. The government is expected to announce clear guidelines in the coming days, outlining its position and approach towards the ongoing situation.