PM Shehbaz condemns Israeli strikes on Iran, warns attack threatens regional peace
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during a meeting on March 6, 2024. PHOTO: APP
Pakistan condemned Israel's strikes on Iran, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Foreign Office (FO) warning that such actions jeopardise regional peace and international law.
The strikes follow escalating tensions, with Israel targeting military sites in Iran early Saturday in response to Tehran’s alleged recent attacks, including a large-scale ballistic missile assault on Israel on October 1. Approximately 200 ballistic missiles were reportedly launched, marking Iran’s second direct strike on Israel within six months.
PM Shehbaz expressed Pakistan’s disapproval of Israel’s actions on social media, saying, "Pakistan stands with Tehran and its other neighbours in pursuit of peace." He noted that Israeli aggression threatens stability in an already volatile region and violates international norms of sovereignty.
The FO’s official statement echoed these concerns, condemning the strikes as a “dangerous escalation” and a “grave violation” of the United Nations Charter. "Israeli military strikes against Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity undermine the path to regional peace," the statement read.
FO also urged the United Nations Security Council to step in to prevent further conflict. "We call on the UN Security Council to play its role in maintaining international peace and take immediate steps to halt Israeli recklessness in the region,” the FO press release added.
Regional and international response
Saudi Arabia also condemned the Israeli strikes, with its Foreign Ministry issuing a statement emphasising its “firm position rejecting escalation of the conflict.” Riyadh warned that such actions threaten the security and stability of Middle Eastern nations.
Meanwhile, the United States called on Iran to halt attacks on Israel to prevent further violence. "We urge Iran to cease its attacks on Israel so that this cycle of fighting can end without further escalation,” said US National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett.
The region remains tense amid fears of continued hostilities, with nations calling for de-escalation to protect the stability and security of the Middle East.