Key Takeaways
- Pakistan expressed deep concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East.
- The country urged all parties to exercise restraint and de-escalate the situation.
- Pakistan supports the sovereignty of countries in the region.
Pakistan has issued a statement expressing deep concern over the recent escalation in regional tensions, urging all sides to exercise restraint. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) reiterated its commitment to supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all brotherly countries in the Middle East.
In a statement released on Sunday, MOFA stated that Pakistan remains committed to supporting the region's stability and urges all parties involved to take immediate steps towards de-escalation. The statement came amid ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran, with both sides engaging in missile and drone attacks.
The escalation of hostilities has led to renewed calls for a return to dialogue under the framework of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which was signed between Washington and Tehran earlier this year. The MoU aimed to provide a 60-day window for negotiations on a permanent agreement, but indirect talks in Qatar ended last week with no significant progress.
The Ministry's statement highlighted Pakistan’s role as mediator in the conflict, emphasizing its commitment to supporting the peace process. 'Pakistan reiterates its strong support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all brotherly countries in the region,' said a spokesperson from MOFA.
On Sunday, Iran targeted US facilities across the Gulf states with heavy missile and drone assaults, marking an escalation in pace and range. Tehran also announced that it had closed the Strait of Hormuz again, citing its need to assert control over shipping through the strait. The strikes were part of a cycle of attacks and counter-attacks as Iran seeks to exert greater influence.
The United States responded with its own missile strikes against Iranian targets, further intensifying the conflict. Both sides have accused each other of violating the terms of the MoU, leading to renewed calls for restraint from Pakistan.
Pakistan's Foreign Office emphasized that the country remains committed to supporting the peace process and urged all parties to uphold their commitments under the MoU. 'We urge all sides to exercise restraint and take immediate steps towards de-escalation,' said a senior official at MOFA.
