ISTANBUL – Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Sunday declared that Iran has the full right to defend itself under the UN Charter, as he strongly condemned Israel’s recent strikes on Iranian territory. Speaking at the 51st session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers, Dar called Israeli actions a clear violation of international law and a serious threat to global peace.
Dar criticized the international community’s double standards and said that Pakistan stands in full solidarity with Iran. He noted that the Israeli strikes came while the IAEA was still conducting inspections at Iranian nuclear sites, which makes the attacks not only illegal but also dangerous to regional and global safety. He stressed that such aggression risked setting a troubling precedent.
Emphasizing the importance of peaceful resolution, Dar urged all parties to pursue dialogue instead of violence. He said Pakistan remains committed to playing its part in promoting regional peace and stability and continues to support diplomatic solutions over military actions.
The foreign minister called for accountability, stating that Israel’s continued military aggression across the Middle East has become a dangerous pattern. He also criticized the United Nations Security Council for failing to act despite an urgent request by Iran and Pakistan to address the attacks.
Dar further highlighted Pakistan’s support for Iran in various international forums, including the IAEA, SCO, and joint statements from Islamic countries. He reaffirmed that the solution to Iran’s nuclear issue lies in diplomacy and sustained engagement, not warfare.
In conclusion, Dar also addressed the ongoing crises in Gaza and Kashmir. He called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and warned that any Indian attempt to block Pakistan’s share of water would be considered an act of war. He stressed that peace in the region cannot be achieved without resolving long-standing issues like Kashmir.