Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman over the phone, strongly condemning the recent Israeli airstrikes on Iran and subsequent attacks on several Gulf countries.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the premier expressed deep concern over the escalating regional tensions and their potential repercussions on peace and stability in the Middle East. He described the military actions as highly dangerous, warning that they could further destabilize an already fragile situation.
Prime Minister Sharif emphasized that these developments threaten the security, stability, and harmony of neighboring nations and the broader Gulf region. During the call, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support and solidarity with Saudi Arabia, stating, “Pakistan stands firmly alongside its Saudi brothers in all circumstances, pledging to safeguard the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of the Kingdom.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted Pakistan’s readiness to play a constructive role at this critical juncture, advocating for peaceful solutions and encouraging diplomatic engagement to de-escalate tensions. He concluded the call with a prayer that the blessings of Ramadan bring swift peace, stability, and harmony to the region, allowing countries to focus on cooperation and development instead of conflict.
The recent escalation began when Israel and the United States carried out strikes on Iranian territory on Saturday, igniting a renewed phase of conflict in the Middle East. The US, according to President Donald Trump, aimed to dismantle Iran’s missile stockpiles and prevent progress toward developing nuclear weapons.
In response, Tehran launched a wide-ranging missile attack targeting facilities in Gulf countries, Israel, and US installations, including the headquarters of the US Fifth Fleet in Bahrain. Reports indicated explosions and heightened air defence operations in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Israel, and Iraq.
Multiple Gulf governments confirmed they had come under attack, with Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, and Jordan successfully intercepting several incoming missiles. In the UAE, state media reported one casualty in Abu Dhabi amid the escalation.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that its strikes were a direct response to any aggression against Iranian territory, following repeated warnings of retaliatory action.
