Pakistan urges restraint and talks as Middle East conflict deepens

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on Monday that Pakistan is closely monitoring the rapidly deteriorating situation in the Middle East and is pressing all parties to prioritize diplomacy and dialogue,

Speaking at a press conference, Dar said Pakistan is in contact with regional countries and working through all available diplomatic channels to reduce tensions following a series of strikes by Iran, Israel, and the United States. “The recent situation is extremely delicate,” he said.

“Pakistan is employing all its diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the crisis. Negotiations and diplomacy remain the only way forward.”

He expressed deep concern over Iranian attacks on Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, and Oman, but acknowledged that Iran acted in what it described as self-defense following the assassination of its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a US-Israeli operation last Saturday. Dar said Pakistan stands in solidarity with the Iranian people over their loss.

One Pakistani citizen was reported killed during attacks in the UAE, he added.

Dar also highlighted Pakistan’s engagement with Afghanistan, noting that Islamabad had sought assurances that Afghan territory would not be used against Pakistan. “We have solid evidence of serious violations from Afghan soil,” he said.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to counterterrorism operations, citing Operation Ghazab lil-Haq against TTP and other militant groups, and emphasized that civilian populations were not targeted.

On the regional front, Dar confirmed Pakistan’s support for diplomatic initiatives and efforts to restore peace in Gaza. He stressed the importance of humanitarian assistance for the civilian population.

Meanwhile, the US Central Command said three US F-15E fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses during active operations against Iranian forces, in an incident described as “friendly fire.” All six crew members ejected safely.

The Middle East conflict has further intensified with Iranian missile and drone strikes across the Gulf, targeting U.S. installations and Israeli sites, while Israel has carried out airstrikes on Tehran and southern Beirut, killing at least 31 in Lebanon, according to Lebanese authorities.

Dar said Pakistan maintains strong relations with China, the US, and neighboring countries and is actively working to encourage restraint among all parties. “We urge all sides to prioritize negotiations and diplomacy to prevent further escalation,” he said.

Pakistan’s position underscores its longstanding emphasis on regional stability and adherence to international law, Dar added, warning that unilateral military actions threaten broader security in the region.