Ishaq Dar extends Pakistan’s goodwill, hopes for peace and stability in Iran

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, during which the two leaders discussed the evolving regional and international situation.

According to a statement issued by the Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the call focused on issues of mutual interest and developments affecting the region. Both sides agreed to remain in close contact and continue consultations on matters of shared concern.

During the conversation, Dar conveyed Pakistan’s goodwill and best wishes for peace and stability in Iran, the Foreign Office spokesperson said.

The exchange reflects ongoing diplomatic engagement between Islamabad and Tehran amid regional challenges, with both countries emphasising dialogue and coordination to promote stability and cooperation.

Protests subside after deadly crackdown

Iran has returned to a calm following weeks of nationwide protests that erupted on December 28 over the country’s worsening economy and quickly escalated into a direct challenge to the ruling theocracy. After a violent state crackdown that human rights groups say killed thousands, there have been no visible protests for several days, particularly in Tehran, where daily life has largely resumed despite an ongoing internet blackout. Iranian authorities have not reported fresh unrest elsewhere in the country.

Hard-line cleric calls for executions

Tensions remain high within Iran’s leadership. Senior hard-line cleric Ahmad Khatami, a member of Iran’s Assembly of Experts and Guardian Council, used a Friday sermon to call for the execution of detained protesters. He accused demonstrators of acting on behalf of Israel and the United States, singling out Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump, and warned they should expect “hard revenge.” His remarks were broadcast on state radio and drew chants from worshippers.

Trump signals restraint

Despite earlier threats of possible military action, Trump struck a more conciliatory tone, thanking Iranian leaders for not carrying out mass executions of detainees. He said Iran had halted the planned hanging of hundreds of prisoners, though he did not specify how this information was confirmed. Executions and the killing of peaceful protesters had previously been identified by Trump as red lines for U.S. action, suggesting Washington may be stepping back from immediate escalation.

Death toll and international concern

The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency has put the death toll at 3,090, a figure that could not independently be verified. Iranian authorities have not released official casualty numbers. Concern over regional stability has prompted diplomatic engagement, including talks by Russian President Vladimir Putin with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Israel’s leadership.

Opposition urges protests to resume

Iran’s exiled opposition figure Reza Pahlavi has urged Iranians to return to the streets, insisting the struggle must continue even as protests inside the country appear suppressed. Meanwhile, demonstrations by Iranian expatriates have continued across Europe, highlighting that while protests at home have been smothered, opposition abroad remains vocal.