ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reaffirmed that it remains in close coordination with the United States while intensifying diplomatic efforts to ease tensions in the Middle East and promote dialogue among key stakeholders.
According to the Foreign Office, Islamabad is engaged in continuous consultations aimed at creating conditions conducive to de-escalation and meaningful negotiations.
Speaking at the weekly briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi stated that Pakistan’s priority is to facilitate dialogue and reduce hostilities. He noted that the next phase of diplomacy would focus on structured negotiations involving relevant parties.
The ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which began in late February, has had far-reaching consequences across the Middle East, including disruptions to global energy supplies due to restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistan has also stepped up its regional diplomatic outreach, recently hosting foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt, while quietly relaying messages between Washington and Tehran. Andrabi said both Iran and the United States have expressed confidence in Pakistan’s role and appreciated its efforts to facilitate communication.
He added that Islamabad has offered to host future negotiations as part of its broader peace initiative.The spokesperson emphasized that Pakistan remains in contact not only with the United States but also with European partners, as well as multilateral platforms such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Despite challenges, he stressed that Pakistan will continue working toward a peaceful resolution through diplomacy rather than pressure or coercion.Clarifying recent discussions about a four-country consultative process, Andrabi said it should not be interpreted as a formal alliance.
Instead, the consultations are aimed at enhancing coordination and advancing shared interests. He reiterated that Pakistan respects Iran’s sovereignty and that its diplomatic role is limited to facilitation, not influence over policy decisions.Referring to Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s recent visit to China, Andrabi highlighted a joint five-point peace plan developed with Beijing.
The proposal has reportedly gained recognition at both regional and international levels and has been shared with Iran, the United States, and other stakeholders. He noted that the framework aligns with outcomes from earlier multilateral discussions held in Islamabad and is being viewed as a constructive step toward achieving a ceasefire and long-term stability.
Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives have drawn support from several countries, including Malaysia and various European states. Andrabi said global leaders, including the President of the European Council, have acknowledged Islamabad’s efforts to promote peace and dialogue.In a related development, the spokesperson confirmed that permission has been granted for 20 Pakistani-flagged vessels to transit through affected maritime routes, calling it a positive sign for regional stability.
While specific details about their destinations were not disclosed, he noted that shipping operations are continuing as planned. Separately, the Foreign Office confirmed that Pakistan has dispatched a delegation to Urumqi, China, for talks with Afghanistan. The meeting follows Ishaq Dar’s recent visit to Beijing, where he held discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
China has been playing a mediating role in easing tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, particularly in the context of cross-border security concerns.Addressing the security situation, Andrabi said there has been no change in Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq, with security forces continuing actions against militant elements.
He emphasized that counterterrorism operations remain unaffected by ongoing diplomatic engagements.Commenting on regional narratives, the spokesperson also criticized India’s stance on sectarian identity, stating that attempts to portray divisions within Islam are misguided and potentially harmful. He warned that such narratives could fuel sectarianism and undermine social cohesion, not only in Pakistan but across the region.