In a detailed address to the Senate on Tuesday, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar shed light on the ongoing developments concerning Iran’s nuclear programme and the escalating tensions in the Middle East. Dar emphasized that Iran has committed to refraining from developing nuclear weapons, a stance that contrasts with the United States’ demand for the complete dismantling of Tehran’s nuclear infrastructure. This divergence in positions remains a critical point of contention in international diplomacy.
During his briefing, Dar revealed that he had recently engaged in discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where he highlighted Iran’s agreement to avoid nuclear armament. However, the US insists on a total shutdown of Iran’s nuclear activities, which complicates efforts to reach a peaceful resolution. The deputy premier’s remarks came against the backdrop of a rapidly intensifying conflict in the Middle East, marked by Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian positions and retaliatory missile and drone attacks launched by Tehran against American interests and military bases scattered across the Gulf region.
The four-day confrontation has seen significant casualties among Iranian leadership, including the reported martyrdom of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, an event described by Iranian officials as an unprovoked and unjustified assault by Israel and the United States. This development has been portrayed as a pivotal moment by Tehran, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps vowing severe retaliation and warning that such a grave act will not go unanswered. The situation has further heightened regional instability and raised concerns about a broader conflict engulfing the Gulf states.
Turning to Pakistan’s role, Dar reassured parliamentarians that Islamabad is firmly committed to supporting Iran’s right to pursue nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. He underscored Pakistan’s readiness to act as a mediator between the United States and Iran, offering Islamabad as neutral ground for dialogue. The deputy prime minister credited Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir for their proactive and constructive involvement in diplomatic and defense-related engagements aimed at de-escalating tensions.
Following the initial attacks on Iran, Dar promptly reached out to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi to express Pakistan’s strong condemnation of the strikes. On behalf of the government and people of Pakistan, Prime Minister Sharif extended condolences over the loss of Ayatollah Khamenei, highlighting the deep respect and solidarity Pakistan holds for its neighbor. Dar also informed the Senate that he had communicated with foreign ministers from several countries, including Turkey, Maldives, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman, to coordinate diplomatic responses and assess the evolving situation.
Notably, the Omani foreign minister conveyed that despite ongoing positive developments in Iran-US negotiations, the recent attack on Iran occurred, underscoring the fragility of the peace process. Dar reiterated that Pakistan views Iran as a brotherly neighbor and has undertaken extensive diplomatic efforts, including back-channel communications, to promote a peaceful resolution. The Iranian leadership is reportedly well aware of Islamabad’s initiatives aimed at defusing the crisis.
Highlighting Pakistan’s consistent stance, Dar recalled that during Pakistan’s tenure as president of the UN Security Council, the country actively facilitated debates on Iran’s nuclear programme, advocating for its peaceful use. He drew parallels between the current situation and a similar incident last June, when Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir engaged with Iranian officials in Istanbul to encourage diplomatic solutions. This historical context illustrates Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to regional stability through dialogue rather than confrontation.
Addressing domestic concerns, Dar emphasized that Pakistan stands firmly with Iran amidst protests and political pressures. He mentioned that some factions have called for stringent monitoring of Iran’s nuclear activities, proposing Pakistan’s inclusion in an oversight framework alongside two other countries. Field Marshal Munir has played a crucial role in defense circles to ease tensions and prevent escalation. Dar also noted that the conflict has extended to attacks on Gulf nations, with Iran retaliating against US bases, including strikes on airports, further complicating the security landscape.
Dar cautioned against Pakistan being drawn into the conflict, stressing that had Gulf countries not been targeted, Pakistan would have joined them in a unified stance against the US and Israel. Despite external pressures, Pakistan condemned the attacks within 15 minutes, demonstrating its commitment to responsible diplomacy rather than seeking political gains or public acclaim. The government has resolved to persist with diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions, a decision endorsed by Prime Minister Sharif during a high-level meeting.
Dar, leaders of various countries expressed that patience and dialogue could have united regional states in constructive talks, preventing further escalation. Pakistan’s strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia remains strong, and ongoing communications with Iran continue to facilitate assurances that neither country’s territory will be used for hostile actions. Saudi Arabia has also provided similar guarantees, contributing to a cautious but hopeful environment for de-escalation.
Dar provided an update on the humanitarian aspect, informing the Senate that approximately 35,000 Pakistanis currently reside in Iran. The Taftan-Zahedan border crossing remains operational, enabling the movement of people despite the closure of Iranian airspace. So far, 792 Pakistanis have been evacuated safely via road routes, and the government is actively ensuring their welfare. This underscores Pakistan’s responsibility to protect its citizens abroad amid regional instability.
Finally, Dar assured that opposition leaders from both houses of parliament would receive a comprehensive briefing the following day to keep all political stakeholders informed. He also mentioned that operational matters concerning Afghanistan would be addressed separately, reflecting the multifaceted nature of Pakistan’s foreign policy challenges. Describing the current regional environment as highly volatile and conflict-prone, Dar reaffirmed the government’s unwavering dedication to diplomatic engagement and peaceful conflict resolution.
