ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian held a significant telephonic discussion on Saturday to address the escalating volatility in the Middle East. The hour-long conversation focused on the urgent need for regional de-escalation and the establishment of a trust-based framework to facilitate international mediation. This high-level contact comes at a critical juncture as tensions continue to rise following recent military strikes and retaliatory actions affecting key infrastructure across the Gulf states.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Iranian President emphasized that building mutual trust is a fundamental prerequisite for any successful dialogue. Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with Iran, strongly condemning recent attacks on Iranian civilian infrastructure. He noted that such hostilities further destabilize an already fragile regional security environment.
The discussion served as a precursor to a major diplomatic gathering in Islamabad scheduled for March 29–30. Foreign ministers from Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Pakistan are set to meet in the Pakistani capital to devise a collective strategy for peace. Prime Minister Sharif apprised President Pezeshkian of the extensive diplomatic outreach currently being managed by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. These efforts include active engagement with the United States and brotherly Islamic nations to create a conducive atmosphere for formal peace negotiations.
During the exchange, the Prime Minister expressed deep condolences over the loss of more than 1,900 lives resulting from the ongoing conflict, offering prayers for the recovery of the displaced and injured. President Pezeshkian expressed his appreciation for Pakistan’s constructive role and shared the Iranian perspective on the security challenges posed by recent external aggressions. Both leaders agreed that a collective approach is essential to find a viable path toward ending hostilities. Pakistan remains committed to its role as a bridge-builder, seeking to restore stability and prevent further humanitarian crises in the region.
