US resolution hails Pakistan’s peace efforts amid Iran tensions

WASHINGTON: A member of the US House of Representatives has introduced a resolution praising Pakistan’s diplomatic role in efforts to ease tensions linked to the Iran conflict, describing Islamabad as a “neutral and reliable mediator” during the crisis, according to the text of the proposal circulated in Washington.

The resolution, introduced by Democratic Congressman Al Green, commended Pakistan for maintaining diplomatic engagement with all sides during the conflict and for supporting efforts aimed at securing a ceasefire and facilitating negotiations.

The move comes amid renewed uncertainty over a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran following reports of fresh military exchanges, including alleged US strikes near Iran’s Bandar Abbas and Qeshm port areas and claims by US President Donald Trump that American naval forces had thwarted Iranian attacks in the Strait of Hormuz.

According to the congressional resolution, Pakistan helped maintain diplomatic communication channels between the parties involved in the conflict and hosted delegations engaged in peace efforts.

The text also praised Islamabad for what it described as “constructive cooperation” in facilitating dialogue despite economic and logistical challenges caused by the regional crisis.

The proposed resolution cited humanitarian concerns stemming from the conflict, saying thousands had been killed and millions displaced. It referred to United Nations estimates that around 3.2 million people had been forced from their homes due to the fighting.

The resolution further noted the economic cost of the conflict, estimating that military operations were consuming nearly $1 billion per day while severely disrupting global energy markets and fuel supplies.

It stressed that ending the conflict was “in the interest of regional and international peace and stability” and said Pakistan had played a “positive and important diplomatic role” in that effort.

The resolution is largely symbolic and does not carry the force of law, but analysts said it reflected growing recognition in Washington of Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement during periods of heightened Middle East tensions.

‘Ceasefire with Iran in place’

Meanwhile, Trump said that the ceasefire with Iran remained in place despite reports of recent clashes and retaliatory strikes.

In comments released by the White House and on his Truth Social platform, Trump said US forces had conducted “defensive operations” in response to attacks allegedly carried out by Iranian-backed forces against American targets.

He claimed US strikes had damaged Iranian missile facilities, command centres and military infrastructure, while warning Tehran against escalating tensions further.

“If Iran signs a peace agreement quickly, further violence can be avoided,” Trump said, adding that Washington sought stability in the region but would not tolerate attacks on US forces or interests.

Iranian officials, however, accused Washington of violating the ceasefire agreement and warned that any further military action would receive a “decisive response.”

Iran also placed air defence systems in Tehran on high alert after reports of explosions and military activity near Bandar Abbas and Qeshm port, according to international media reports.

Iranian authorities alleged that an Iranian oil tanker had also been targeted in the latest attacks, though details remained unclear.

At the United Nations, Iran’s envoy criticised what he called “biased American narratives” surrounding the conflict and rejected accusations that Tehran had sought to mine the Strait of Hormuz.

The envoy said the current crisis was rooted in US and Israeli policies in the region and argued that lasting peace could only be achieved through an end to war, sanctions and political pressure.

‘US Navy destroyers safely cross Strait of Hormuz’

Separately, Trump claimed three US Navy destroyers had safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz despite coming under missile and drone attacks by Iranian forces.

He said US defence systems intercepted incoming missiles and destroyed several Iranian attack boats before they could reach American vessels.

“No normal country behaves this way in an international shipping lane,” Trump said, accusing Iran’s leadership of pursuing extremist policies and reiterating that Washington would not allow Tehran to acquire nuclear weapons.

Iran has repeatedly denied seeking nuclear weapons and says its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes.