Pakistan Tried Backdoor Diplomacy After Iran Attack as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated that Islamabad has been actively engaged in both public and behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts to help ease escalating tensions in the Middle East following recent regional developments.
Speaking during a briefing in the Senate, the foreign minister said Pakistan has remained in continuous contact with multiple countries in an attempt to promote dialogue and prevent further escalation.
Pakistan Engaged in Active Diplomatic Outreach
Ishaq Dar informed lawmakers that Pakistan issued its initial response to the regional situation on February 28, emphasizing the importance of restraint and diplomatic engagement.
He added that after reports regarding major developments in Iran emerged, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also released an official statement expressing concern over the situation and calling for stability in the region.
According to Dar, Pakistan has consistently pursued diplomatic engagement since earlier phases of the conflict and renewed its efforts following the latest attacks involving Iran.
Backchannel Efforts Aimed at De-escalation
The foreign minister revealed that Pakistan attempted to help resolve tensions through backdoor diplomacy, alongside formal diplomatic communication.
He explained that Islamabad has reached out to several regional and international stakeholders over the past few days in an effort to bring parties toward negotiations and constructive dialogue.
Dar emphasized that diplomatic channels remain the most effective path to preventing further military escalation, noting that continued communication could help create space for mutual understanding.
Contacts With Regional Leadership
Highlighting Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement, Ishaq Dar said he recently held discussions with the Foreign Minister of Oman, describing the conversation as part of broader efforts to facilitate dialogue in the region.
He described Iran as a neighboring and brotherly Muslim country, stressing Pakistan’s interest in regional peace and stability.
The foreign minister noted that some diplomatic initiatives shared during the Senate briefing had not previously been disclosed publicly, indicating the sensitive nature of ongoing negotiations.
Pakistan Advocates Dialogue Over Conflict
Dar reiterated that Pakistan’s foreign policy prioritizes peaceful conflict resolution through negotiations rather than confrontation.
He stated that both open diplomacy and confidential diplomatic engagement are being pursued simultaneously to encourage dialogue among involved parties.
According to the minister, Iranian leadership has been kept informed of Pakistan’s efforts and has expressed appreciation for Islamabad’s diplomatic role.
Rising Regional Concerns Drive Mediation Efforts
The Middle East situation has prompted growing international concern due to fears of broader instability affecting global security and economic conditions.
Analysts say countries with strong regional ties, including Pakistan, may play an important role in facilitating communication channels during periods of heightened tension.
Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach reflects wider global calls urging restraint, negotiation, and political solutions to avoid further escalation.