Islamabad, June 26, 2025: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday expressed satisfaction over the recently established ceasefire that ended the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran, noting that Tehran had, for the first time in recent memory, publicly acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic efforts.
Addressing the federal cabinet, the Prime Minister said that both Pakistan’s political and military leadership played a pivotal role during the crisis. He highlighted the diplomatic engagements led by Field Marshal Asim Munir, who held critical meetings with both American and Iranian officials during the escalation.
“The Iranian leadership extended sincere gratitude to Pakistan — a gesture that is unprecedented in recent times,” the Prime Minister remarked. “Our Field Marshal had a luncheon meeting with President Donald Trump in Washington, followed by a detailed, hour-and-a-half-long discussion in Istanbul with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.”
According to the Prime Minister, Araghchi acknowledged Pakistan’s peace efforts during their meeting, stating, “We were not the ones who attacked. If Israel stops, we are ready for dialogue.”
The conflict erupted after Israeli airstrikes targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, killing several senior military officials and scientists amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington. The situation further escalated when the United States launched strikes on three additional Iranian nuclear sites, claiming to have significantly disrupted Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Prime Minister Sharif emphasized that Pakistan had strongly condemned all acts of aggression, including missile attacks on US bases in Qatar, and communicated its position clearly to all concerned parties. He praised Iran’s handling of the crisis, calling it a demonstration of “dignity and restraint,” and lauded the Iranian people for their resilience under immense pressure.
The Prime Minister also credited Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for playing a key role in de-escalating the crisis.
“I had a detailed telephone conversation with the Crown Prince,” he said. “His immediate condemnation of Israel’s attacks and direct engagement with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian contributed significantly to ending hostilities.”
As the ceasefire continues to hold, US President Donald Trump has hinted at possible talks between American and Iranian officials next week. However, Tehran has not confirmed any plans for formal negotiations. Speaking at a NATO summit, President Trump declared the war over and reiterated that the United States would not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons.
Meanwhile, in response to the strikes on its nuclear sites, Iran’s parliament has passed legislation to expedite the suspension of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), signaling growing tensions over international oversight of its nuclear program.
