US Urges Pakistan to Continue Mediation Role in Iran-Israel Tensions

The United States has urged Pakistan to persist in its involvement in current peace initiatives with Iran. This encouragement comes amid escalating concerns about a wider conflict and aims to de-escalate tensions with Israel.

This development occurred following a phone call between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and US Secretary of State Rubio on Friday, according to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office.

Details of the Conversation

During their friendly discussion, the Prime Minister extended his well wishes to President Donald Trump, acknowledging his strong leadership.

He also lauded Secretary Rubio’s proactive diplomatic efforts, which were instrumental in facilitating a ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and India, thereby averting a potential major crisis between the two nuclear powers.

Pakistan’s Stance on Regional Peace

Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized that President Trump’s supportive remarks regarding Pakistan were highly encouraging for achieving lasting peace in South Asia, which he believes can only be realized through meaningful dialogue between Pakistan and India.

In this regard, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to engaging in discussions with India on all unresolved matters, including Jammu & Kashmir, the Indus Water Treaty, trade, and counter-terrorism efforts.

Discussion on the Middle East Crisis

The situation in the Middle East, particularly the tensions between Iran and Israel, was also addressed. Prime Minister Shehbaz stressed the importance of finding a peaceful resolution to this significant crisis through dialogue and diplomatic means.

He affirmed Pakistan’s readiness to play a constructive role in any peace efforts, emphasizing that the current situation is deeply concerning, not only for the region but also globally.

Bilateral Cooperation

Recalling President Trump’s focus on trade, the Prime Minister noted the necessity for Pakistan and the US to collaborate in advancing mutually beneficial cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, energy, mining, rare earth metals, and information technology.

Regarding security and counter-terrorism, Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s determination to combat terrorism throughout the country, specifically addressing threats from groups like the BLA and TTP.

Secretary Rubio acknowledged Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts and assured full US cooperation in addressing such threats.

The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with the productive discussions between President Trump and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in Washington earlier in the week.

Both leaders concurred that discussions between their countries should now translate into concrete actions across all areas.

Prime Minister Shehbaz also highlighted the importance of frequent high-level engagement to build upon the positive momentum in Pakistan-US bilateral relations.

He repeated his invitation to President Trump to visit Pakistan officially and expressed his anticipation for meeting the US President soon.

The Prime Minister also reiterated his invitation to Secretary Rubio to visit Pakistan in the near future.

Secretary Rubio thanked the Prime Minister for the call and expressed his desire to enhance bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and the US across all areas of mutual interest.

He also acknowledged Pakistan’s commitment to upholding the ceasefire understanding with India, as well as its continuous efforts for peace in the region.

He further commented that the US is devoted to working closely with Pakistan to foster regional and global peace and stability.