ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said this week that diplomacy was the only way forward to resolving the ongoing US-Iran conflict, thanking China, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and other countries for supporting Islamabad’s mediation efforts.
Dar, who is also Pakistan’s foreign minister, was speaking at a UN Security Council open debate on “Maintenance of International Peace and Security.” Convened by China on Tuesday, the meeting discussed the UN Charter’s principles and how to use it to resolve conflicts.
With its close ties to Iran, the Gulf states and the US, Pakistan has positioned itself as the chief mediator in the US-Iran conflict which began in February. Islamabad hosted the first round of talks between both sides and has vowed to continue its efforts to broker peace, as the conflict pushes oil prices higher and disrupts energy supplies.
Speaking at the debate on Tuesday, Dar said “the path forward lies in diplomacy,” adding that Pakistan had exerted its efforts to ensure lasting peace and maritime routes open for all in the region.
“We are continuing this noble endeavor with resolve and dedication,” Dar said. “I thank the parties for the confidence reposed in Pakistan, and thank all our partners — including China, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Türkiye and Qatar — for their support.”
Pakistan has remained in regular contact with Saudi Arabia, China, Egypt, Qatar and other countries as the Middle East conflict continues. Pakistani officials have consulted Riyadh, Beijing, Doha and other world capitals and sought their support in mediating between the US and Iran.
The Pakistani minister said the principles of the UN Charter should apply to all disputes, including the one in Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine.
He criticized India for holding the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan in abeyance unilaterally. New Delhi suspended the treaty in April 2025 after blaming Islamabad for an attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26. Pakistan denies the allegations.
“Water must never be weaponized; treaties must be honored; and disputes must be resolved through adherence to international law, dialogue and justice, and implementation of relevant Security Council resolutions,” he said.
‘TERRORIST GROUPS’ IN AFGHANISTAN
Separately, Dar met UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York. The two discussed the Middle East situation and other regional developments, Pakistan’s Permanent Mission to the UN said in a statement.
Dar stressed that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan remained vital for regional stability.
“He, however, expressed deep concern over the continued use of Afghan soil by terrorist groups against Pakistan and reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to safeguard its national security and protect its citizens in accordance with international law and the UN Charter,” the statement added.
Ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan remain strained as Islamabad blames Kabul for sheltering militants who launch attacks against Pakistan. Kabul denies the allegation and urges Pakistan to resolve its security challenges internally.
The border forces of both countries have engaged in fierce clashes since February this year. Pakistan has vowed it will carry out military operations in Afghanistan to protect its citizens.
