Pakistan Urges US and Iran to Halt Attacks and Resume Negotiations

Pakistan has urged the United States and Iran to halt mutual attacks and resume technical negotiations in accordance with a memorandum of understanding agreed upon in Islamabad. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated that the ongoing conflict over the past week threatens to further disrupt regional peace and stability. “As hostilities continue for a week, Pakistan once again calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from actions that could further undermine peace and stability,” Andrabi told reporters in Islamabad on Thursday. He stressed that Pakistan believes dialogue and diplomacy are the only means to achieve sustainable peace. “Ultimately, all conflicts and disputes are resolved through dialogue at the negotiating table,” he said. Andrabi noted that Pakistan remains in communication with relevant parties to help de-escalate tensions. The statement was made as the US and Iran continue to exchange attacks amid tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. Last month, the presidents of both countries signed the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, which provided 60 days for Washington and Tehran to negotiate a permanent peace agreement. Andrabi said the memorandum remains a crucial framework for promoting peace, mutual respect, and shared prosperity. While acknowledging challenges in its implementation, he said Pakistan will continue to urge all parties to cease violence and resume technical-level talks in line with the memorandum and the joint Pakistan-Qatar statement of 22 June. Following the signing of the interim agreement, US and Iranian negotiating teams held discussions in Switzerland mediated by Pakistan and Qatar. “We hope all parties remain committed to the path of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve outstanding issues,” Andrabi said. Regarding the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, Andrabi noted that many countries, particularly in the Global South, are affected by the conditions there. Pakistan, he said, believes it is necessary to urgently address the impact of the Strait of Hormuz situation on global energy supplies, trade, and food security. He also expressed hope that conditions in the Strait of Hormuz would soon return to normal and that the safety and freedom of international navigation would be guaranteed. Iran has stated that the Strait of Hormuz remains under its control, while the United States has reimposed a blockade on Iranian ports.