Pakistan told the UN Security Council that external interference in Iran’s internal affairs must stop. Ambassador Asim Ahmad emphasized respect for the UN Charter and international law. He expressed hope for an early normalization of the situation in Iran.
Addressing the 15-member council, Asim described Iran as a “brotherly country” with deep historical, cultural, and religious ties to Pakistan. He said a stable Iran benefits Pakistan, the region, and the world. He warned that continued hostilities and unilateral actions would worsen the crisis and increase suffering.
Read more: Pakistan urges restraint at UN, rejects external interference in Iran
The Pakistani envoy stressed that all disputes should be resolved peacefully and through dialogue. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s confidence in the wisdom and resilience of the Iranian people and leadership. He urged relevant parties to return to negotiations based on mutual respect and understanding.
Pakistan has always advocated the primacy of diplomatic engagement and the imperative of avoiding confrontation and conflict in a region already beset by tensions and volatility.
In our view, diplomacy and dialogue should be the guiding principles for achieving negotiated… https://t.co/OptRP8QXMh
— Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, PR of Pakistan to the UN (@PakistanPR_UN) January 16, 2026
The UN Assistant Secretary-General and Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also called for restraint, warning that threats of military strikes could escalate regional tensions. Meanwhile, US envoy Mike Waltz criticized Iran’s handling of protests, while Russian and Chinese ambassadors condemned potential foreign intervention, highlighting the need to uphold sovereignty and international law.
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Iran’s deputy ambassador accused the United States of deliberately stirring unrest and misrepresenting facts to justify intervention. He described Washington’s actions as cynical attempts to destabilize Iran under a humanitarian pretext. Pakistan’s position aligns with calls by Russia, China, and other members for diplomacy, restraint, and respect for Iran’s sovereignty.