Pakistan, Iran Foreign Ministers Reaffirm Commitment to Regional Peace

Pakistan and Iran on Friday reaffirmed their commitment to promoting lasting peace and stability in the region during a telephone conversation between the two countries’ foreign ministers. The reaffirmation came in the wake of fresh strikes amid ongoing peace talks between the US and Iran. Speaking with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to playing a constructive role in advancing regional and international peace, according to a statement from Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry. Araghchi expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s continued support for the peace process. He also thanked Islamabad for facilitating the safe and smooth repatriation of Iranian crew members and fishermen to Iran. The two agreed to remain in close contact as diplomatic efforts by both nations continue. The telephone conversation took place after the US said on Friday evening that its forces had struck Iranian missile, drone, and radar sites after accusing Tehran of being behind attacks on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said its naval forces targeted US military positions across the region in response to the American strikes in the south of the country and vowed a harsh response if escalation continues. Earlier this month, Iran and the US reached a 14-point understanding mediated by Pakistan, which came into effect on 18 June after being electronically signed by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and US President Donald Trump. The agreement includes provisions to end hostilities on various fronts, including Lebanon, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and lift the US naval blockade against Iran. Meanwhile, 60-day negotiations continue to achieve a more comprehensive and lasting agreement.