Iranian President and Pakistani PM Discuss Conflict and Strait of Hormuz via Phone

Cairo (ANTARA) - Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian spoke via telephone with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday (23/3), reaffirming Tehran’s commitment to regional cooperation, as reported by Iran’s Tasnim news agency. During the conversation, Pezeshkian stated that Iran did not initiate the ongoing conflict with the United States (US) and Israel, describing efforts to defend Iranian territory as a “reasonable right”. He affirmed that Tehran remains committed to maintaining regional stability, opposes foreign intervention, and urged neighbouring countries not to allow their territory or facilities to be used to launch attacks against Iran, warning that such actions could trigger further instability. Pezeshkian linked disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz to the conflict. He said Iran has taken measures to ensure maritime security and will facilitate passage for ships not associated with aggressors. In response, Sharif expressed concern over the escalation and offered condolences for the reported casualties. He called for collective efforts, particularly among Muslim-majority countries, to de-escalate tensions and restore stability. Sharif also stated that Pakistan supports Iran’s right to self-defence and reaffirmed Islamabad’s support for the Iranian government and people. Pakistani media separately quoted Sharif expressing solidarity with the Iranian people, offering condolences to those who died, and praying for the swift recovery of the injured.