POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

PM Shehbaz, Iranian President Discuss Peace Efforts Amid Rising Regional Tensions

PM Shehbaz Sharif briefs Iran’s president on Pakistan’s mediation efforts between US and Iran, reaffirming support amid escalating regional tensions.
2026-03-28
PM Shehbaz, Iranian President Discuss Peace Efforts Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held an extensive telephonic conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday, during which the two leaders discussed ongoing regional tensions and Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to facilitate peace talks between Washington and Tehran.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the call lasted over an hour and focused on the evolving security situation in the region, particularly the ongoing hostilities involving Israel and Iran.

During the conversation, the prime minister apprised President Pezeshkian of Pakistan’s proactive diplomatic outreach aimed at creating a conducive environment for dialogue between the United States and Iran. He highlighted the efforts being led by himself, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir to engage key stakeholders, including the United States, Gulf nations, and other Islamic countries.

Pakistan has recently emerged as a central player in mediation efforts, working closely with Turkey and Egypt to facilitate indirect communication between Washington and Tehran.

The prime minister also conveyed the “strong endorsement” Pakistan has received for its peace initiative from various international partners, expressing optimism that collective diplomatic efforts could pave the way for de-escalation and eventual resolution of the conflict.

Reiterating Pakistan’s stance, Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the continued Israeli attacks on Iran, including recent strikes on civilian infrastructure. He expressed solidarity with the Iranian people and offered condolences over the loss of more than 1,900 lives, while also praying for the recovery of those injured and displaced.

In response, President Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement and acknowledged the prime minister’s efforts to promote peace. He emphasized the importance of building trust as a foundation for meaningful negotiations and praised Pakistan’s constructive role in facilitating dialogue.

The prime minister assured the Iranian leadership that Pakistan would continue to play an active and positive role in efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region.

The conversation comes at a time when Islamabad is intensifying its diplomatic engagements. Pakistan is scheduled to host the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt on March 29-30 for high-level discussions focused on regional tensions and peace initiatives.

Earlier, Ishaq Dar confirmed that indirect talks between the United States and Iran are already underway, with Pakistan acting as a communication channel. He revealed that a 15-point proposal from Washington has been shared with Tehran and is currently under consideration, with support from regional partners including Turkey and Egypt.

As diplomatic momentum builds, Pakistan’s role as a mediator continues to gain international recognition, positioning Islamabad at the forefront of efforts to ease one of the most critical geopolitical crises in the region.