Islamabad, March 1, 2026: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday chaired a high-level meeting to review the evolving regional environment and Pakistan’s internal security situation, state-run Pakistan Television Corporation (PTV) reported.
The meeting comes amid heightened tensions on multiple fronts. Earlier this week, Pakistan launched “Operation Ghazab lil-Haq” against the Afghan Taliban after cross-border targeting of Pakistani positions, according to official sources.
Separately, the United States and Israel carried out strikes against Iran on Saturday, in which Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was reportedly killed. Tehran termed the attacks unprovoked and illegal and responded by firing missiles at Israel and several other countries, including Gulf states hosting US military bases.
In a post on X, PTV said the prime minister and senior officials conducted a detailed review of the regional situation, including Pakistan’s diplomatic and security role in promoting peace and stability. The situation in Afghanistan was also examined comprehensively, with participants receiving briefings on internal security arrangements.
The meeting further reviewed efforts to repatriate Pakistani citizens stranded in Iran amid the crisis. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan briefed participants on steps being taken to ensure their safe return. According to PTV, evacuations are being facilitated through Azerbaijan.
Russia visit postponed
In a related development, the Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that Shehbaz Sharif has postponed his upcoming official visit to Russia, citing the prevailing regional and domestic situation.
The PMO described the visit as significant for strengthening bilateral ties but said a new date would be announced after mutual consultations. Russian media had earlier reported that the prime minister was scheduled to visit Moscow from March 3 to 5.
The decisions reflect Islamabad’s focus on managing immediate security concerns and diplomatic challenges as tensions escalate across the region.
