ISLAMABAD(National Times)- Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has said that Pakistan is actively pursuing diplomatic channels to help reduce rising tensions in the Middle East. Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Dar said the latest developments have sharply intensified an already fragile regional situation. He stressed that Pakistan is urging all sides to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation. He noted that the situation deteriorated at a time when diplomatic initiatives aimed at a peaceful, negotiated outcome were still underway. Dar questioned the sudden turn of events that has now drawn in multiple countries, adding that Saudi Arabia had reportedly responded to Iran in self-defence, though no casualties have been reported so far. Referring to a meeting chaired by Shehbaz Sharif a day earlier, Dar said Pakistan is deeply concerned about violations of international law and long-standing diplomatic norms, particularly the targeting of state and government leaders. He warned that current developments on the ground are troubling and undermine established international conventions.
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The foreign minister reiterated that Pakistan has consistently maintained that dialogue and diplomacy must remain open. He said that all states should adhere to the UN Charter, respect sovereignty and territorial integrity, and comply with international humanitarian law. Dar also recalled a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on February 28, during which he conveyed Pakistan’s condemnation of the attacks and called for restraint. While his counterpart responded positively, Dar said the situation has yet to show signs of calm. He added that he has remained in contact with several foreign ministers, noting a shared understanding that diplomacy is the only viable path forward—not just for the Middle East, but for conflicts worldwide. Dar concluded by saying that existing international forums and mechanisms must be used collectively to restore respect for the principles agreed upon in the post–World War II global order.
