Pakistan, Iran Push Diplomacy as Leaders Seek End to Hostilities

28/03/2026

Pakistan, Iran Push Diplomacy as Leaders Seek End to Hostilities

ISLAMABAD (AP), Mar 28: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held extensive discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday, focusing on ongoing regional hostilities and efforts to bring an end to the conflict.

According to a statement from the prime minister’s office, the hour-long conversation included a briefing to the Iranian leader on Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach led by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Army Chief Asim Munir. The efforts aim to engage the United States, Gulf nations, and other Islamic countries to create conditions conducive to peace talks.

Sharif expressed optimism that “a viable path toward ending hostilities could be found collectively,” while Pezeshkian praised Pakistan’s mediation efforts and emphasized that building trust is essential for dialogue and conflict resolution.

The Iranian president reiterated that Tehran “does not carry out pre-emptive attacks,” but warned of a strong response if its infrastructure or economic centers are targeted. He also urged regional countries not to allow external powers to use their territory to fuel the conflict.

The diplomatic push comes ahead of planned talks in Islamabad, where foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt are expected to meet on Sunday to discuss de-escalation efforts.