ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s top civil-military body, the National Security Committee (NSC), convened on Monday under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to address the escalating tensions in the Middle East. The NSC strongly condemned Israel’s military strikes against Iran, reaffirming Tehran’s legitimate right to self-defence under the United Nations Charter.
The committee voiced deep regret that the Israeli attacks occurred during a promising phase of negotiations between Iran and the United States. According to the official statement, Israel’s “reckless” actions have heightened regional instability, risking a broader conflict and jeopardising peace efforts.
Offering condolences to the Iranian government and people, the NSC expressed grave concern over the June 22 Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. These attacks, the statement noted, were in clear violation of international law, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) resolutions, and the UN Charter.
Pakistan reiterated its call for all parties to immediately de-escalate tensions and engage in meaningful dialogue. The committee stressed the need for adherence to international humanitarian and human rights laws and pledged Pakistan’s continued diplomatic efforts for peace and regional stability.
The meeting comes amid a dramatic surge in hostilities following Israel’s military campaign on Iranian soil, which has resulted in over 950 fatalities in Iran, including key military leaders, nuclear experts, and civilians. In response, Iran launched drones and missiles into Israel, reportedly killing 24 individuals.
Earlier, Israel also bombed Evin Prison in Tehran, a key symbol of Iranian authority, in what was described as the most intense assault on the Iranian capital since the conflict began. Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council met at Iran’s request, as the international community awaited Tehran’s response to the U.S. strikes on its nuclear facilities.
During the session, Pakistan, Russia, and China called for an immediate ceasefire. Pakistan’s UN envoy, Asim Iftikhar, condemned both the Israeli and U.S. attacks, warning against further escalation and urging a return to diplomacy.
