Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar held talks with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York on Wednesday, amid escalating tensions following recent US strikes on Tehran that have threatened a fragile ceasefire. On Tuesday, Iran accused the United States of breaching the ceasefire by targeting areas near the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz, complicating Pakistan-led efforts to end the conflict.
Meanwhile, Israel launched over 120 airstrikes on Lebanon in one of the heaviest bombardments in weeks, Lebanese security officials. Iran has insisted that any peace agreement must include an end to Israeli attacks in Lebanon.
During the meeting, Dar, who is in the United States for the UN Security Council session, exchanged views with Guterres on recent developments in the Middle East and West Asia. He expressed gratitude for the UN chief’s principled stance and support of Pakistan’s mediation initiatives, highlighting the diplomatic breakthrough achieved through the Islamabad Talks held in April. Dar noted that the ceasefire, initially brokered through Pakistan’s efforts, has largely held and reaffirmed his commitment to ongoing dialogue aimed at securing lasting peace and stability in the region.
The Foreign Minister also commended Guterres for his steadfast dedication to the United Nations and multilateralism, acknowledging the strong cooperation between Pakistan and the UN. Dar reiterated Pakistan’s firm commitment to the principles of the UN Charter and the promotion of global peace and security through constructive engagement within the UN framework. He welcomed the Secretary-General’s UN80 Initiative, praising his leadership and emphasizing that the priorities of developing nations must remain central to the reform agenda.
Dar further stressed the importance of enhancing conflict prevention, peaceful dispute resolution, and peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts to reflect evolving global realities. On Security Council reform, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding position advocating a comprehensive process grounded in sovereign equality, transparency, inclusivity, and wide consensus among member states, asserting that these goals can only be achieved by adding elected members.
Turning to South Asia, Dar voiced concerns over provocative rhetoric from Indian leadership that threatens regional stability. He condemned India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty as a clear violation of international law and established norms governing state relations. He emphasized that the Kashmir dispute remains the core issue between Pakistan and India, underscoring that a just resolution aligned with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people is essential for lasting peace in the region.
Dar highlighted that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is crucial for regional security, while expressing deep concern over terrorist groups operating from Afghan territory targeting Pakistan. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to protect its national security and citizens in accordance with international law and the UN Charter.
Regarding Palestine, the Deputy Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s legitimate struggle for self-determination and statehood. He appreciated the Secretary-General’s continued advocacy for a two-state solution and the implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan, as endorsed by Security Council Resolution 2803.
In response, Secretary-General Guterres acknowledged Pakistan’s active role at the United Nations and its ongoing contributions to international peace and security, including through diplomatic efforts and UN peacekeeping missions.
