South Asia and the Middle East currently stand at a critical juncture. The growing tensions between Iran and the United States are a warning sign not only for the Gulf but for the peace and stability of the entire region.
At such a sensitive time, the seriousness and responsibility with which Pakistan has initiated diplomatic efforts reflect the maturity of a state that seeks to play its role in promoting peace rather than remaining a mere spectator. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is part of this ongoing diplomatic engagement.
The two leaders held detailed discussions on the evolving regional situation and agreed that the current tensions can be resolved not through the use of force, but through sustainable dialogue and active diplomacy. The Prime Minister emphasised that peace, security, and development in the region are interconnected, and if the flames of war are ignited, the entire region could be engulfed.
Pakistan-Iran relations are not limited to geographical proximity; they are rooted in shared history, culture, and religious ties. Both countries have supported each other in difficult times. This is why Islamabad, while maintaining close consultations with Tehran, is striving to prevent any potential confrontation. The commitment to advancing high-level contacts through institutional mechanisms demonstrates that both nations seek serious and lasting cooperation rather than temporary statements.
In this context, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s contact with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, is also significant. According to the Foreign Office, he made it clear that dialogue is the only viable path forward. This message is also directed at the international community, that the use of force complicates issues rather than resolving them.
Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts are not confined to Tehran alone. Islamabad remains in continuous contact with Washington as well, fully aware that any confrontation between Iran and the United States would directly affect Pakistan and the broader region. Energy corridors, oil prices, maritime trade, and even internal security could all be impacted by such tensions.
President Donald Trump’s stern warnings to Iran and the presence of the US naval fleet in the Gulf have further aggravated the situation. Differences over Iran’s nuclear program persist, but in the event of war, the human and economic losses would be irreparable. Past experiences show that the consequences of military action in the Middle East are felt for years. Pakistan has also raised the issue at global forums, including the World Economic Forum. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s discussions with US officials signal Islamabad’s desire to see the international community actively engaged. A core principle of Pakistan’s foreign policy has always been to seek the resolution of disputes through dialogue, mediation, and diplomacy.
Meanwhile, the United States appears to be using recent protests within Iran as a basis for allegations or to pave the way for potential action against it.
It is also noteworthy that despite being a nuclear power, Pakistan has consistently acted responsibly. The possibility of any nuclear escalation in the region makes it all the more cautious. Pakistan does not wish to become part of bloc politics, nor is it in its interest to join any confrontation against a particular side. Its sole interest lies in regional peace and economic stability.
One aspect of Iran’s tensions is economic. If a war-like situation emerges in the Gulf, global oil prices could skyrocket, directly affecting an import-dependent economy like Pakistan’s. Moreover, the closure or uncertainty of maritime routes would disrupt global trade. Therefore, Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement is not merely a moral responsibility but also a matter of national interest.
The reality is that in today’s world, war is not a solution to any problem. Diplomacy, restraint, and mutual respect are the only paths that can guarantee sustainable peace. The timely and balanced diplomatic strategy initiated by Pakistan is commendable. If global powers demonstrate seriousness and prioritise negotiations, a potential crisis can be averted. The need of the hour is to save the region from yet another devastating conflict. Pakistan’s efforts are a positive step in that direction. It is hoped that these diplomatic initiatives will bear fruit and that differences between Iran and the United States will be resolved through negotiations, enabling the Middle East and South Asia to move toward peace, stability, and development.
The twelve-day war between Iran and Israel also demonstrates that Iran is not an easy target. Meanwhile, the United States appears to be using recent protests within Iran as a basis for allegations or to pave the way for potential action against it. There is no doubt that Iran’s economic conditions have deteriorated due to international sanctions, leading many Iranians to hold their current leadership responsible. However, if the United States were to launch an attack on Iran, public anger could shift toward America, which would certainly not serve US interests. Nor would such an action fulfil any American ambition of regime change in Iran.
The writer is an old Aitchisonian who believes in freedom of expression, a freelance columnist, entrepreneur and social activist.