ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held an extensive phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday, sharing details of Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic push to ease tensions as the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States entered its second month.
According to an official statement, the conversation lasted over an hour and focused on the deteriorating regional situation and efforts to revive dialogue. The prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s active outreach aimed at creating space for negotiations, involving coordination with key regional and global stakeholders.
During the call, Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned ongoing Israeli strikes, particularly recent attacks affecting civilian infrastructure, and reiterated Pakistan’s firm support for the Iranian people. He also expressed condolences over the significant loss of life and extended prayers for those injured or displaced.
The premier briefed President Pezeshkian on Pakistan’s multi-level diplomatic engagement, which includes efforts led by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, as well as military leadership under Asim Munir. These initiatives are focused on engaging Washington and key Gulf and Islamic nations to help de-escalate the crisis and encourage dialogue.
He further noted that Pakistan’s peace initiative has received broad international backing, expressing optimism that a collective pathway toward ending hostilities could emerge.
President Pezeshkian, while acknowledging Islamabad’s diplomatic role, shared Iran’s concerns over continued military actions and emphasized that trust-building would be essential for any meaningful negotiations. He also appreciated Pakistan’s constructive efforts in supporting peace.
Reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment, the prime minister assured that Pakistan would continue working actively to promote regional stability through diplomacy.
The exchange comes amid intensified backchannel efforts, where Pakistan in coordination with Turkey and Egypt has been facilitating indirect communication between Tehran and Washington. Officials recently confirmed that messages are being relayed through these channels in an attempt to prevent further escalation and open the door for negotiations.
