Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday urged all parties in the Middle East conflict to exercise restraint following renewed exchanges between Israel and Iran. He called for diplomacy and warned against actions that could undermine fragile peace efforts. The appeal comes as regional tensions threaten to derail ongoing negotiations and ceasefire initiatives.
In a statement posted on X, Shehbaz said the latest escalation highlighted the risks associated with a fragile ceasefire. He warned that renewed violence could lead to severe consequences for regional stability and security. The prime minister stressed that diplomatic engagement remained the most effective path toward resolving the crisis.
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Shehbaz said Pakistan was working alongside regional partners and friendly countries to support a peaceful settlement. He noted that efforts to achieve a diplomatic breakthrough were continuing and urged all sides not to jeopardize progress. According to the prime minister, the prospects for a negotiated solution remain encouraging if restraint is maintained.
The statement followed a fresh round of hostilities between Israel and Iran, marking the first direct exchange of attacks since the ceasefire that took effect on April 8. The latest flare-up began after Israel launched strikes on targets in Iran, following Iranian retaliation linked to an earlier attack on Beirut’s southern suburbs.
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Concluding his message, Shehbaz urged regional actors to remain committed to peace and dialogue rather than confrontation. He said diplomacy offers a viable route to lasting stability and should be given every opportunity to succeed. Pakistan has consistently called for de-escalation and peaceful conflict resolution in the Middle East.