Iran praises Pakistan’s ‘Strong Solidarity’ as regional conflict deepens

WEB DESK: The Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has formally extended his gratitude to the government and people of Pakistan for their “unwavering support” following a series of military strikes by the United States and Israel.

In a statement released on Monday, Mr Araghchi commended Islamabad’s “full-throated expression of solidarity,” highlighting the deep-rooted ties between the two nations during what has become a period of significant regional instability.

Writing on the social media platform X, Mr Araghchi noted that Iran remains resolute in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity. His comments come at a time when Tehran is seeking to bolster its diplomatic alliances to counter the pressure exerted by the ongoing Western-led military campaign.

A region bracing for economic fallout

The current hostilities erupted on 28 February 2026, after coordinated strikes by US and Israeli forces targeted Iranian military infrastructure. This sparked an immediate retaliation from Tehran, which has utilised drone and missile strikes against assets in the Gulf. The escalation has sent shockwaves through the global economy, most notably within the energy and aviation sectors.

The disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil supply, has intensified fears of a prolonged energy crisis, with immediate ripple effects across key sectors. Global markets have reacted sharply, as Brent crude prices surged past $104 per barrel, reflecting mounting concerns over supply constraints.

The aviation sector has also been significantly affected, with major international hubs in Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi imposing flight restrictions amid heightened security risks.

Meanwhile, regional trade has taken a substantial hit, as shipping routes across the Gulf are being rerouted or, in some cases, temporarily suspended, underscoring the broader economic and logistical challenges stemming from the escalating instability.

Pakistan’s delicate diplomatic balancing act

Despite the intensity of the conflict, Pakistan has opted for a policy of “cautious solidarity.” While Islamabad has been vocal in its moral and political backing of Tehran citing shared historical and cultural bonds it has notably avoided any direct military involvement.

Instead, Pakistani officials have positioned the country as a diplomatic mediator, calling for immediate de-escalation and a return to dialogue.

This stance reflects Pakistan’s difficult position: maintaining its strategic relationship with a neighbouring Iran while navigating the complex web of international pressure.

For now, Islamabad’s priority remains the restoration of regional stability to prevent further shocks to global trade and energy security.