As Washington weighs the possibility of renewed military action against Iran, it is reassuring that Pakistan’s leadership has clearly voiced its opposition to any aggression against its neighbour. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday, underscoring the importance of sustained dialogue and diplomatic engagement at this critical juncture.
The foreign ministers of both countries also held talks, with Ishaq Dar stressing that diplomacy remains “the only viable way forward”. Echoing this position, the Foreign Office noted that the region cannot afford another conflict and reiterated Pakistan’s opposition to the use of force against Iran or interference in its internal affairs.
Islamabad’s position reflects a broader regional consensus. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have already stated that their territory and facilities will not be used for an attack on Iran, while Turkiye has intensified diplomatic outreach. On Friday, the Turkish foreign minister hosted his Iranian counterpart as part of efforts to avert what could become a devastating regional war.
Pakistan shares a long border with Iran, making regional instability an immediate concern. Despite periodic tensions, ties between the two countries have generally remained cordial, rooted in shared history, culture and spiritual links. By opposing external intervention against a sovereign state, Pakistan has demonstrated moral clarity. Gulf states, too, are wary of the potential repercussions of a US strike, particularly after Iranian officials warned that American bases in the region would be targeted in the event of an attack.
Nevertheless, media reports suggest Washington may be pressuring Riyadh to tacitly support military action, even as the Saudi defence minister visits the US. The onus lies on Washington to abandon its confrontational approach and engage Iran through diplomacy while respecting its sovereignty. Iranian leaders have indicated that they have learned from last year’s US-Israeli actions and would respond with greater force if attacked.
Any assumption that a conflict would be swift or contained is deeply flawed. A war would be protracted, immensely destructive and damaging to the global economy. At the same time, Iran must address the genuine concerns of its own citizens and work to improve rights at home. Such change, however, must come from within, not through external coercion.