Pakistan is actively working to de-escalate rising tensions in the Middle East, with a focus on fostering dialogue between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political and Public Affairs Rana Sanaullah stated on Saturday that Pakistan remains committed to its agreements with Saudi Arabia and is promoting rapprochement between the two regional powers.
Escalating Regional Conflict
The current surge in tensions follows US and Israeli air strikes last month that resulted in the assassination of Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several senior officials. This triggered retaliatory attacks from Iran, targeting US military bases in Gulf countries and significantly expanding the scope of the conflict. Since February 28, Gulf Arab states have experienced over 2,000 missile and drone attacks, impacting diplomatic missions, military bases, oil infrastructure, ports, airports, hotels and residential areas.
Saudi Arabia has publicly expressed its desire to avoid military confrontation but has also reserved the right to act against Iran after being targeted by Iranian ballistic missiles. Iran, in turn, has accused Israel of attacking facilities in the South Pars gas field and has vowed further attacks on oil and gas targets throughout the Gulf, including missile launches at Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Pakistan has reaffirmed its strong strategic commitment to Saudi Arabia while simultaneously urging restraint to prevent a wider regional conflict. Sanaullah emphasized that Pakistan condemns aggression against Iran and any other Muslim country, while also expressing solidarity with the Islamic world.
Pakistan’s Regional Role and Internal Challenges
Sanaullah stated that Pakistan currently enjoys the confidence of Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain, positioning the country as a “symbol of peace and unity” within the Muslim ummah. He also underscored the importance of national unity and political stability in addressing both internal and external challenges facing Pakistan.
Sanaullah indicated that Pakistan is successfully addressing multiple challenges under the prime minister’s leadership, strengthening its international standing. He also addressed tensions with Afghanistan, stating Pakistan desires that Afghan soil not be used against any country, particularly Pakistan, and that tensions could end with assurances to that effect.
Operation Ghazab Lil Haq is currently underway, targeting terrorist hideouts based on intelligence information, with security forces reportedly dismantling several terrorist training sanctuaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pakistan’s position on the conflict between Iran and Saudi Arabia?
Pakistan is committed to its agreements with Saudi Arabia and is making efforts to reduce regional tensions by promoting rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran.
What prompted the recent escalation in the Middle East?
Tensions escalated sharply after US and Israeli air strikes assassinated Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several senior officials last month.
What has been Saudi Arabia’s response to the attacks?
Saudi Arabia has publicly stated We see working to prevent a military confrontation but has reserved the right to act militarily against Iran after being targeted by Iranian ballistic missiles.
As the situation in the Middle East remains volatile, what role might Pakistan play in preventing further escalation?
