NEWS DESK (MNN); Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday held telephone conversations with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, expressing deep concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Ministerās Office, PM Shehbaz strongly condemned Israelās attack on Iran and the subsequent strikes on several Gulf states, warning that such actions pose a serious threat to regional peace and stability. He stressed that the developments could further destabilise the Middle East and urged all sides to exercise restraint to prevent a wider conflict.
The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistanās unwavering solidarity with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, assuring both leaderships of Islamabadās full support under all circumstances. He reiterated Pakistanās commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the Kingdom and other brotherly Gulf nations.
PM Shehbaz said Pakistan was ready to play a constructive role to help de-escalate tensions and promote peace. He also expressed hope that the blessings of Ramazan would lead to an early restoration of stability and harmony in the region.
Foreign Office Condemns Attacks
The Foreign Office expressed regret over the breakdown of diplomatic talks and the outbreak of hostilities after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran, prompting retaliatory missile attacks on Gulf states.
In its statement, the FO condemned the attacks against Iran, terming them unwarranted and harmful to regional stability. At the same time, Pakistan strongly condemned Iranian missile attacks on Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar and the UAE, calling them blatant violations of sovereignty.
The FO also confirmed the death of a Pakistani national in a missile attack in Abu Dhabi and urged all parties to avoid further escalation.
Darās Diplomatic Engagements
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held separate telephonic conversations with Iranās Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, and UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
During his discussion with the Iranian counterpart, Dar condemned the attacks on Iran and called for an immediate return to diplomacy. In separate calls with Saudi and UAE foreign ministers, the leaders expressed serious concern over unfolding developments and agreed to remain in close coordination.
PIA Suspends Gulf Flights
Meanwhile, Pakistan International Airlines suspended flights to the UAE, Bahrain, Doha and Kuwait due to the evolving situation. Flights to Saudi Arabia will continue but via longer routes using Boeing 777 aircraft.
Passengers were advised to contact the airlineās call centre for updated information.
Travel Advisory Issued
The Foreign Office also issued a travel advisory, urging Pakistani nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Iran. Citizens currently residing in Iran were advised to remain vigilant, limit movement and stay in contact with Pakistani missions in Tehran, Zahidan and Mashhad.
