ISLAMABAD (MNN); Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces/Army Chief Asim Munir on Thursday reviewed progress on Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts aimed at ensuring sustainable peace in the region.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the army chief called on the premier, where both leaders expressed satisfaction over the de-escalation achieved so far. They emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and ceasefire by all parties involved.
The leadership appreciated the restraint shown by all sides and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating dialogue and extending full support for a peaceful resolution. The prime minister also welcomed the commitment of stakeholders and reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to host delegations with full cooperation.
The development comes as delegations from the United States and Iran are expected in Islamabad for key negotiations over the weekend. Pakistan has positioned itself as a mediator following the conflict that erupted after US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, triggering global concerns, including a fuel crisis.
Since the outbreak of tensions, PM Shehbaz and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar have actively engaged regional and international leaders to push for dialogue. On March 24, Pakistan formally offered to host meaningful talks between Washington and Tehran.
Subsequently, diplomatic exchanges intensified, with both sides sharing proposals through Islamabad. A broader regional effort also emerged, including a quadrilateral meeting involving Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt, followed by a joint initiative with China aimed at restoring peace in the Middle East.
Tensions escalated earlier this month when former US President Donald Trump issued a deadline to Iran, warning of severe military action if a ceasefire was not agreed. However, diplomatic intervention by Pakistan led to a temporary two-week truce, contingent on safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran later indicated it would halt defensive operations if attacks ceased, though the ceasefire remains fragile amid ongoing Israeli strikes in Lebanon. Tehran has warned of a strong response if violations continue.
Prime Minister Shehbaz has urged all sides to exercise restraint and allow diplomacy to succeed. He has also held consultations with regional leaders, including Lebanon’s prime minister and Gulf leadership, who appreciated Pakistan’s role in promoting peace and stability.
