Pakistan Advocates for Diplomatic Resolution to Middle East Crisis at United Nations
In a significant address at the United Nations Security Council, Pakistan has issued a strong call for all parties involved in the Middle East crisis to immediately cease escalation and prioritize diplomatic negotiations. The statement was delivered by Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar, during a briefing focused on "The Situation in the Middle East."
Condemnation of Attacks and Violation of International Law
Ambassador Iftikhar explicitly condemned what he described as unwarranted attacks against the Islamic Republic of Iran, emphasizing that these actions constitute clear violations of established international law. He highlighted the particularly troubling timing of these assaults, noting they occurred precisely when renewed diplomatic efforts were actively underway to achieve a peaceful and negotiated resolution to the regional tensions.
The Pakistani envoy warned that such aggressive maneuvers threaten to severely undermine the peace and stability of the entire region, potentially triggering far-reaching and unpredictable consequences that could extend well beyond immediate borders.
Solidarity with Gulf States and Call for Restraint
Extending Pakistan's stance, Ambassador Iftikhar also condemned recent attacks targeting several Gulf Cooperation Council nations. "Pakistan stands in firm solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates," he stated, underscoring the urgent need for all actors to exercise maximum restraint. He characterized the unprovoked attacks as blatant violations of the sovereignty of these brotherly Gulf states.
While acknowledging and praising Oman's instrumental role in facilitating and mediating dialogue between Iran and the United States, the ambassador stressed that violent actions directly contradict the spirit of such diplomatic initiatives.
Urgent Appeal for De-escalation and Humanitarian Concerns
The Permanent Representative issued a direct appeal to all involved parties, urging them to refrain from any further actions that could compromise the security or territorial integrity of other countries in the region. He emphasized that the path forward must be anchored in dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution.
Expressing deep humanitarian concern, Ambassador Iftikhar offered Pakistan's heartfelt condolences and sympathies to all civilians caught in the crossfire of the escalating violence. "Our thoughts are with the school children in Iran, the many innocent civilians affected elsewhere, and the family of the Pakistani national who tragically lost his life during attacks on the United Arab Emirates," he said solemnly.
Reiteration of Pakistan's Consistent Diplomatic Principles
Concluding his address, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar reiterated Pakistan's long-standing and consistent foreign policy position. He called for full respect for international law, including the United Nations Charter and international humanitarian law. Pakistan has consistently advocated for the primacy of peaceful resolution of disputes, he affirmed, stating that diplomacy and dialogue must serve as the guiding principles for achieving negotiated settlements to all contentious issues. This approach, he noted, should be pursued in strict accordance with the rights, obligations, and responsibilities of all concerned parties.
The statement reinforces Pakistan's role as a voice for moderation and stability in international forums, particularly concerning volatile regional conflicts that have global implications.
