Iranian Attacks on Gulf States Regrettable; Pakistan Supports Dialogue, Says Ishaq Dar
Islamabad: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has termed the recent Iranian attacks on Gulf countries as regrettable, reiterating that Pakistan supports dialogue and diplomacy to ease regional tensions.
While briefing ambassadors in the federal capital on the situations in Iran and Afghanistan, Dar said Pakistan is closely monitoring developments in Iran, describing the current situation as extremely sensitive. He added that Pakistan remains in contact with regional countries and is utilizing all diplomatic channels to help de-escalate tensions.
“States are bound by international laws regarding the sovereignty of other countries,” Dar said, emphasizing that Pakistan supports diplomatic efforts for resolving all outstanding issues and urges all parties to prioritize negotiations.
He stated that dialogue and diplomacy are the only viable path forward. Expressing deep concern over Iranian strikes on Gulf states, Dar noted that Iran had described the attacks as acts of self-defense, but stressed that Pakistan continues to advocate for peaceful engagement.
The deputy prime minister also confirmed that one Pakistani national was killed in an attack in the United Arab Emirates. He highlighted Pakistan’s efforts in promoting peace in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza, and called for humanitarian assistance to be provided to the people of Gaza.
Dar said Pakistan participated in the inaugural meeting of the Gaza Peace Board and maintains strong relations with China, the United States, and brotherly countries in the region. He reiterated Pakistan’s desire for peaceful neighborly relations with Afghanistan, noting that he made three visits to Kabul last year.
During those visits, discussions covered economic cooperation, trade, and regional connectivity, including rail link projects. However, Pakistan conveyed a clear demand that Afghan territory should not be used against it.
Dar said there have been serious violations originating from Afghan soil and claimed Pakistan possesses concrete evidence of cross-border terrorism. He added that mediation efforts by Qatar and talks held in Istanbul did not yield results.
Referring to Operation Ghazab-ul-Haq, he said Pakistan took action against the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant elements, successfully destroying their hideouts and camps. He stressed that civilian populations were not targeted in the retaliatory operations.
Dar concluded by stating that Pakistan reserves the right to take all necessary measures for its defense, alleging that Afghanistan has become a safe haven for terrorists.
