Tehran Thanks Islamabad for Solidarity Amid US-Israeli Aggression
Tehran thanks Islamabad for its recent expressions of support as the Middle East conflict continues to escalate. In a rare statement issued in Urdu on Monday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed “heartfelt gratitude” to the government and people of Pakistan. He acknowledged their solidarity during what he described as a period of aggression by the United States and the “Zionist regime.”
Pakistan’s Strategic Balancing Act
While expressing support for Iranian sovereignty, Pakistan is navigating a complex diplomatic landscape. The Foreign Office has positioned Islamabad as a “bridge builder” in the region. However, the conflict has forced Pakistan to activate high-level security protocols to protect its own interests and those of its allies.
Key Diplomatic Developments:
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Saudi Security: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar recently revealed that Islamabad invoked its “Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement” with Riyadh. This move was intended to deter potential Iranian strikes on Saudi Arabia following Tehran’s retaliatory actions against US assets in the Gulf.
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UNSC Stance: At the United Nations, Pakistan has maintained a delicate balance. It recently supported a Bahrain-led resolution condemning Iran’s retaliatory attacks while simultaneously voting for a Russian draft resolution aimed at de-escalation.
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High-Level Diplomacy: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a restricted meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on March 12 to discuss regional security and the protection of energy corridors.
Regional Impact and Security
The conflict, which intensified following strikes on February 28, has disrupted trade and heightened maritime risks. Pakistan’s proactive role in calling for diplomacy comes as regional powers fear a total breakdown of South Asia.
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Sovereignty Defense: Iran maintains it is acting in defense of its territorial integrity.
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Mediation Efforts: Pakistan continues to urge an immediate return to negotiations to prevent a broader regional war.
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Bilateral Relations: Despite the tension, the exchange between Araghchi and Islamabad suggests a mutual desire to maintain functional diplomatic channels.
