Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a phone conversation with Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday, reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast support for Iran amid the recent Middle East crisis, as Iran and Israel agreed to a US-mediated ceasefire.
During the call, President Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s consistent and principled backing, particularly at international platforms such as the United Nations Security Council and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s stance, emphasizing the need for all parties to respect international law and the UN Charter. He underscored Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, urging dialogue and diplomacy as the only path to ease tensions.
Both leaders highlighted the importance of unity within the Muslim Ummah, describing it as essential in navigating the current regional challenges.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar welcomed the ceasefire between Iran and Israel, calling it a positive step toward sustainable peace. In a post on X, Dar wrote: “I am immensely delighted and Pakistan warmly welcomes today’s ceasefire between Iran and Israel. We commend those who played a pivotal role in facilitating this development and hope this positive step will contribute to lasting peace and stability in the region.” He also reiterated Pakistan’s position that disputes must be resolved through respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the principles of the UN Charter.
The ceasefire, brokered by US President Donald Trump following talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, was to be phased in, allowing both sides to conclude ongoing operations. US Vice President JD Vance and other senior officials also engaged with Iranian representatives during the negotiations.
However, the truce appeared to falter on Tuesday. President Trump, frustrated with both sides, accused Iran and Israel of violating the agreement. On Truth Social, he urged Israel to halt further attacks: “Israel. Do not drop those bombs. If you do it, it is a major violation. Bring your pilots home, now!” he posted before heading to a NATO summit in The Hague.
Iran rejected allegations of violating the ceasefire, with state television dismissing the claims as “false and unfounded,” and reaffirming Tehran’s commitment to the truce. Despite this, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz ordered retaliatory strikes on targets in Tehran after reports of an Iranian missile launch, which set off air raid sirens in northern Israel—just hours after Netanyahu had agreed to the US-brokered ceasefire.
