Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to promoting dialogue and diplomacy as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate without any immediate resolution in sight. Speaking on Monday during a briefing with members of the diplomatic community in Islamabad, Dar underscored the critical importance of prioritizing negotiations among all involved parties to prevent further deterioration of the regional situation.
The recent surge in hostilities has seen Israel launching attacks targeting Iran, while Tehran has responded by firing missiles and deploying drones against what it describes as “US interests and military bases” scattered across the Gulf states. This intensification of military actions has heightened tensions across the region, raising concerns about a broader conflict that could destabilize an already volatile area.
In this challenging diplomatic environment, Pakistan is actively engaging with regional and international stakeholders to encourage de-escalation and a return to peaceful dialogue. Dar acknowledged the complexity of the current circumstances, noting, “We are navigating through some of the most difficult diplomatic times in recent memory. Our primary focus remains on reducing tensions and facilitating a platform where all parties can come back to the negotiating table.” His remarks reflected Pakistan’s strategic approach to conflict resolution, which relies heavily on dialogue rather than military confrontation.
Highlighting Pakistan’s close monitoring of developments in Iran, Dar reiterated the country’s support for peaceful dispute resolution through diplomatic channels. He stressed that Pakistan firmly believes negotiations are the only viable path forward to achieve lasting peace in the region. This stance aligns with Pakistan’s broader foreign policy objectives, which emphasize stability and cooperation among neighboring countries and beyond.
Addressing the human cost of the conflict, Dar mentioned a tragic incident in the United Arab Emirates where one Pakistani citizen lost their life during an attack. This loss has further galvanized Pakistan’s resolve to work towards peaceful solutions and maintain friendly relations with all its neighbors. The Deputy Prime Minister also touched upon Pakistan’s ongoing efforts related to the Palestinian issue, particularly the situation in Gaza. He pointed out that Pakistan has actively contributed to initiatives aimed at resolving the crisis, recalling collaborative engagements between Arab Islamic nations and former US President Donald Trump’s administration to restore peace and ensure the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Furthermore, Dar shared insights from his recent visits to Afghanistan, where he held extensive discussions with Taliban leadership focusing on trade and economic cooperation. He reiterated Pakistan’s firm position against the use of Afghan soil for terrorist activities, stating, “We have concrete evidence that Afghanistan’s territory has been exploited for terrorism.” This concern remains a significant aspect of Pakistan’s security and foreign policy, as the country seeks to foster stability in the region while combating extremism.
In conclusion, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s statements reflect Pakistan’s proactive and balanced approach amid a rapidly evolving Middle East crisis. By advocating for dialogue, supporting humanitarian efforts, and engaging with regional actors, Pakistan aims to contribute constructively to peace and stability in one of the world’s most sensitive geopolitical hotspots.
