Islamabad, April 2, 2026: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said that Pakistan has made “utmost efforts” to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, adding that diplomatic initiatives are still underway to help end the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran.
Speaking during a special high-level meeting, the prime minister noted that Pakistan was being significantly impacted by the conflict, particularly on the economic front. He emphasized that the government is actively working to reduce tensions and promote regional peace.
The war — now stretching beyond a month — began on February 28 between the United States, Israel, and Iran, plunging the Middle East into deep turmoil. Following the initial strikes by US and Israeli forces, Iran responded by blocking the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and launching retaliatory attacks on Israeli territory and US military bases across the region.
Pakistan has positioned itself as a key intermediary between Washington and Tehran, intensifying its diplomatic outreach to facilitate dialogue and reduce hostilities. As part of these efforts, Islamabad hosted foreign ministers from regional powers, including Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt, and conveyed messages between the two sides.
Earlier this week, Pakistan, in coordination with China, jointly urged all parties — the US, Israel, and Iran — to immediately halt military actions and initiate peace talks.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also revealed that two Pakistani vessels had recently been stranded in the Strait of Hormuz but were able to safely navigate the area due to coordinated efforts led by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir.
He commended the deputy prime minister’s tireless diplomatic engagement, stating, “We have made every effort to cool down the flames of war in the region.”
The prime minister further shared that provincial chief ministers had pledged full cooperation in addressing wartime challenges. He noted that the federal government had reduced the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) by Rs100 billion within three weeks as part of economic adjustments. Parliamentarians have also supported measures aimed at conserving fuel.
Highlighting key priorities, PM Shehbaz said the government remains focused on protecting citizens, safeguarding the agriculture sector, and ensuring the continuity of goods transportation. “Controlling inflation is also among our top priorities,” he added.
He concluded by stressing the importance of coordinated efforts between the federation and provinces, urging all stakeholders to work collectively and utilise national resources efficiently to navigate the ongoing crisis.
