Pakistan expressed deep concern over the recent escalation in the Middle East following Iran’s attack on Israel, terming it a “failure of diplomacy.”
The Foreign Office issued a statement stating that Pakistan is closely monitoring the ongoing developments in the Middle East. The statement emphasized that the current situation highlights the consequences of diplomatic breakdown.
Tehran retaliated against Israel by launching over 300 drones and missiles since Saturday, in response to an Israeli airstrike on its Damascus consulate. The airstrike resulted in casualties, including Iran’s elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) senior commanders Mohammed Reza Zahedi and Mohammad Hadi Haji Rahimi.
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Israeli army spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirmed that Iranian missiles struck Israel, causing light damage to a military installation in the south of the country. He noted that 99% of the missiles were intercepted and shot down.
Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels also launched multiple drones at Israel following Iran’s retaliatory assault.
Iran warned Israel of a larger attack on its territory if it retaliates against Tehran’s drone and missile attack. Tehran also cautioned Washington against backing Israeli military action, threatening to target US bases in response.
Pakistan called on all parties to exercise utmost restraint and move towards de-escalation, stressing the need to stabilize the situation and restore peace. The statement underscored the implications of the UN Security Council’s failure to maintain international peace and security.
Several countries, including China and Saudi Arabia, expressed concern and urged calm and restraint to prevent further escalation. The UNSC is scheduled to meet today following Israel’s request, and G7 leaders will discuss the situation on a video call initiated by Italy, the current president of the group.
