Pakistan ready to play mediation role amid rising Mideast tensions

Tarar says due to long-standing ties with Gulf countries, Pakistan is always ready to assist whenever necessary

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said on Wednesday that Pakistan is ready to play a pivotal role in mediating regional tensions following the attack on Iran by the United States and Israel.

“Pakistan is engaged in discussions with various partners, and we have always aimed to maintain balance in relations. I believe we are in a position to play a mediation role with countries in the region,” he said during an interview with Al Jazeera.

The information minister expressed Pakistan's “desire to participate in de-escalating the situation” in Iran and to prevent further instability in the region. He emphasised that, due to these long-standing ties, Pakistan is always ready to assist whenever necessary.

Read More: Pakistan making full diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions in Middle East

The current Middle East conflict erupted on February 28 when US and Israeli forces launched coordinated strikes on Iran. The attacks quickly escalated, with Iran retaliating through drone and missile strikes targeting US assets and allied interests across the Gulf.

Pakistan has maintained a cautious but supportive stance, calling for restraint and dialogue while avoiding direct involvement. Islamabad has expressed solidarity with Iran, highlighting historical, cultural, and economic ties.

Officials have engaged in diplomatic efforts, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who also serves as foreign minister, holding regular calls with relevant regional leaders to urge de-escalation.

Last week, Dar also held telephonic conversations with his counterparts from several Gulf states and other countries, stressing the importance of de-escalation and emphasising the need to pursue dialogue and diplomacy in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter.