Pakistan is maintaining close communication with US leadership and is actively involved in ongoing diplomatic consultations aimed at lowering tensions and facilitating meaningful negotiations, the Foreign Office stated. The country is focused on creating an environment conducive to de-escalation and dialogue, with the next phase concentrating on substantive talks among key stakeholders.
The conflict, which began on February 28 involving the US, Israel, and Iran, has impacted the broader Middle East region and caused significant economic disruptions. Iran’s blockade of oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz has contributed to global economic challenges.
In a notable diplomatic effort, Pakistan recently hosted senior ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt, serving as a channel for communication between Washington and Tehran. Both Iran and the United States have expressed confidence in Pakistan’s facilitation role and acknowledged its efforts. Pakistan has also offered to host and mediate negotiations as part of its wider diplomatic outreach.
Addressing inquiries, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi clarified there is no information regarding Israel’s involvement in the current negotiation process. Pakistan continues to engage with the US, European partners, as well as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Despite existing challenges, Pakistan remains committed to promoting dialogue and facilitation to achieve de-escalation and a sustainable resolution.
Andrabi emphasized that discussions about a four-country consultative process should not be misconstrued as forming an alliance. Instead, the focus is on enhancing mutual cooperation among the participating states to advance shared interests and coordination. Pakistan is supporting diplomacy without exerting pressure on any party, and its efforts should not be seen as coercive, especially considering Iran’s sovereign policy decisions.
Referring to Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s recent visit to China, Andrabi highlighted that the joint five-point peace plan proposed by China and Pakistan has received recognition at both regional and international levels. This plan has been shared with Iran, the US, and other relevant actors, with consultations still underway. The five points align with the communiqué issued after the four-country meeting held in Islamabad.
Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives are viewed as significant steps toward achieving a ceasefire, reducing tensions, and securing lasting peace. The country appreciates the backing of various nations supporting these peace efforts, including leaders from Malaysia and European countries. The President of the European Council has also expressed support, reflecting growing global recognition of Pakistan’s role.
In a positive development for regional stability, permission has been granted for 20 Pakistani-flagged vessels to transit, with these ships continuing their scheduled movements. Although details about their destinations remain undisclosed, Pakistan’s efforts have earned appreciation both regionally and globally.
Separately, the Foreign Office confirmed that Pakistan has dispatched a delegation to Urumqi, China, for talks with Afghanistan. Senior government officials represent Pakistan in these discussions, though the full composition of the delegation has not been revealed. This meeting follows Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s visit to Beijing, where he met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. China is actively mediating the escalating conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Pakistan maintains that it is targeting extremists responsible for cross-border attacks, with airstrikes launched on Afghanistan on February 26 due to militants finding safe haven under the Taliban. Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq continues unabated, with recent counterterrorism actions carried out by security forces. Andrabi stressed that ongoing negotiations have not impacted the operation, which proceeds as usual.
In a separate statement, the Foreign Office spokesperson condemned India’s attempt to assign a separate identity to the Shia community, describing it as a reflection of ignorance about Islam and a dangerous trend. He emphasized that Shia and Sunni are different schools of thought within Islam and should not be framed as majority or minority groups. The spokesperson warned that India’s efforts to fuel sectarianism could be harmful not only to Pakistan but also to India itself.
