On Wednesday, Pakistan made a powerful appeal at the United Nations Security Council, urging all parties involved in the Middle East conflict to immediately halt hostilities. The country emphasized that only through peaceful negotiations and dialogue can the ongoing violence be brought to an end, thereby preventing further loss of innocent lives, destabilization of the region, and damage to vital infrastructure and energy networks. Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, stressed the grave consequences of the current conflict, highlighting that its repercussions extend far beyond the immediate battleground and affect the entire international community.
Ambassador Ahmad underscored that this conflict was avoidable and should never have escalated to its present level. He pointed out that violations of international law not only undermine justice but also threaten the fragile prospects for peace. “When international law is disregarded, peace is not advanced but jeopardized,” he remarked, urging all sides to cease hostilities without delay and return to meaningful negotiations. His remarks reflected Pakistan’s consistent stance on resolving disputes through diplomacy rather than force.
During the Security Council session, the ambassador expressed regret over the council’s inability to present a unified front in response to the crisis. He acknowledged the introduction of two draft resolutions by Bahrain and the Russian Federation, both aimed at de-escalating tensions and fostering dialogue. Pakistan declared its support for both proposals, recognizing their potential to contribute to a peaceful resolution. By voting in favor of Bahrain’s resolution, Pakistan demonstrated solidarity with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan, all of whom have been directly affected by the conflict.
Ambassador Ahmad highlighted Pakistan’s deep concern over the attacks targeting these Gulf countries, particularly those aimed at civilian populations and critical infrastructure. He lamented that despite these nations’ continuous efforts to promote dialogue and diplomatic solutions, they have nonetheless faced unwarranted aggression. This situation, he noted, underscores the urgent need for all parties to recommit to peaceful engagement and respect for international norms.
In addition to supporting Bahrain’s resolution, Pakistan welcomed the Russian Federation’s draft, which calls for restraint, cessation of military operations, and a return to negotiations. The ambassador pointed out that this approach aligns closely with Pakistan’s overarching policy of advocating for peaceful conflict resolution through dialogue and mutual understanding. He emphasized that any military escalation only serves to deepen divisions and prolong suffering.
Turning to the humanitarian and economic fallout, Ambassador Ahmad drew attention to the tragic loss of at least two Pakistani nationals in attacks on the UAE, underscoring the personal toll the conflict has taken on Pakistan’s diaspora. Millions of Pakistanis living and working in the Gulf region remain vulnerable amid the ongoing violence. Furthermore, the crisis has severely disrupted Pakistan’s energy supplies, forcing the government to implement extraordinary conservation measures for oil, gas, and electricity. The ambassador also noted significant interruptions to essential aviation routes, which have further complicated travel and trade between Pakistan and the Gulf states.
Condemning all unlawful uses of force, the ambassador called for strict adherence to International Humanitarian Law, emphasizing that any military action outside the framework of the UN Charter is illegitimate and must be condemned. He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to peace and the urgent need for all parties to return to the negotiating table. “A genuine political will and sincere commitment are indispensable to rebuild trust and lay the groundwork for peaceful coexistence,” he stated.
Pakistan also acknowledged and appreciated the ongoing mediation efforts by various countries working to bridge differences and facilitate dialogue between the conflicting parties. The ambassador highlighted Pakistan’s active engagement with regional and international partners to support these peace initiatives. He concluded his address by reiterating a strong call for restraint from all sides, urging them to immediately de-escalate tensions, halt further attacks, and prioritize diplomacy to achieve a lasting and negotiated settlement to the crisis.
