Pakistan offers to host US-Iran talks, says it is working for lasting Gulf peace

Islamabad: Pakistan on Thursday said it is maintaining communication with relevant stakeholders involved in the ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States and remains committed to supporting diplomatic efforts for regional peace.

Speaking at a weekly press briefing in Islamabad, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi described the situation in the Gulf as fragile, particularly following recent armed exchanges. He said Pakistan's communication channels remain open and the country continues to engage with all concerned parties in a constructive manner.

Calls for restraint and diplomacy

Andrabi stressed the need for maximum restraint from all sides and urged countries involved in the conflict to avoid actions that could escalate tensions further. He called for the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure while emphasising the importance of dialogue over confrontation.

Pakistan also condemned attacks reported by Kuwait and Bahrain, which accused Iran of carrying out strikes on their territories that caused casualties and property damage.

Pakistan willing to host talks

The spokesperson reiterated Pakistan's willingness to host dialogue between the United States and Iran if fresh diplomatic momentum emerges. He said Islamabad had previously expressed readiness to facilitate discussions and remains prepared to do so if required.

According to Andrabi, Pakistan hopes any agreement between the two countries can be reached as soon as possible and supports all efforts aimed at reducing tensions in the region.

Pakistan also welcomed recent remarks by Donald Trump suggesting that an agreement with Iran could be reached. Andrabi said such optimism should encourage all parties involved in negotiations and help sustain diplomatic engagement despite obstacles.

Position on Palestine unchanged

Responding to questions regarding the Abraham Accords, Pakistan said its position remains unchanged. Andrabi reiterated that Islamabad's support for any regional arrangement remains linked to the establishment of an independent and viable Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital, based on pre-1967 borders.

As tensions continue to simmer across the Gulf region, Pakistan has positioned itself as a supporter of dialogue and diplomacy, expressing readiness to facilitate talks while urging all sides to avoid escalation and pursue peaceful solutions.
(With PTI inputs)