‘Give peace a little more chance’: Pakistan urges restraint amid US-Iran escalation

Pakistan has expressed concerns over ongoing situation in the Middle East marked by renewed conflict and heightened tensions.

The concerns were expressed by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN Asim Iftikhar Ahmad while speaking at the Security Council Briefing on Non-proliferation.

The ambassador said the recent surge in violence in the Middle East is a stark reminder of the dangers associated with a tenuous ceasefire and the unbearable consequences it may lead to.  He emphasised that cycle of violence and instability must end for the sake of regional and international peace, security and prosperity.

Asim reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the resolution of all outstanding issues including Iran nuclear issue through peaceful means, diplomatic engagement and sustained dialogue.

Pakistan’s sincere efforts are meant to break the momentum of hostilities, save lives and give diplomacy a chance.

“Our approach underscores Pakistan’s consistent commitment to regional stability and international peace, reflecting our preference for principled, dialogue-oriented diplomacy in addressing geopolitical challenges and managing complex disputes,” he said.

“As we work earnestly and painstakingly, together with our friends and partners, to find a peaceful diplomatic solution to the conflict, and especially when the final objective is just about to be achieved, we sincerely urge all sides to exercise restraint and give peace a little more chance,” he added.

The envoy urged the warring parties to continue to tread the path of peace and diplomacy, “for it has bright prospects of success, something that the international community has pinned its hopes on”.

He also appreciated both parties for reposing their trust in Pakistan, and engaging in dialogue to achieve a ceasefire and participating in the ‘Islamabad Talks’ – the highest-level direct engagement between the United States and Iran for over four decades.

“Through sustained interaction at the leadership level with both Washington and Tehran, as well as with other partners in the region and beyond, notably Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Türkiye, Qatar and China and others, Islamabad has sought to encourage dialogue, facilitate the exchange of messages, and help create space and conditions conducive to meaningful negotiations,” he maintained.