Pakistan stresses need for restraint, de-escalation in the Iran, US conflict

UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan on Tuesday used the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to push for sustained diplomacy in the ongoing United States-Iran crisis, with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar highlighting Islamabad’s role in efforts aimed at reducing tensions between Tehran and Washington. Addressing a high-level UNSC debate chaired by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the UN headquarters in New York, the deputy prime minister warned that another conflict in the Middle East would have serious regional and global consequences. “Another prolonged conflict would serve no one,” he told the council. “It would endanger regional peace, disrupt global energy flows, deepen humanitarian suffering and strain an already fragile international order.” In remarks closely watched because of Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement in the crisis, Dar said Islamabad had consistently advocated for restraint and dialogue because of its ties with both Tehran and Washington. “As a friendly neighbour of Iran and brotherly countries of the Gulf, and a country with longstanding ties of amity with the United States, Pakistan consistently stood for restraint, de-escalation and a return to diplomacy,” he said. The foreign minister also publicly acknowledged Pakistan’s continuing mediation efforts. “We have exerted our sincere efforts in facilitating a durable solution that results in lasting peace and stability in the region, and keeps maritime routes open for all,” he said. “I thank the parties for the confidence reposed in Pakistan, and thank all our partners — including China, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Türkiye and Qatar — for their support,” he added. Dar referred to his March 31 visit to Beijing, where Pakistan and China jointly announced a “Five Point Initiative for Restoring Peace and Stability in the Gulf and Middle East Region”. “The entire world is watching — we must succeed in the interest of regional and global peace and security,” he said. The debate, held und