Dar urges de-escalation in Middle East during call with Bahrain’s foreign minister

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reiterated Pakistan’s call for de-escalation and dialogue in the Middle East during a telephone conversation with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif Bin Rashid Al Zayani on Tuesday night, according to an official statement from the Foreign Office (FO).

The discussion comes amid heightened tensions in the region following recent attacks, including incidents in Bahrain. The FO stated that both ministers “exchanged views on the developments in the Middle East and the wider region, conveying grave concern over recent attacks, including in Bahrain.”

Iran, which borders Pakistan to the west, has been involved in a conflict with the United States and Israel since February 28, when strikes by the latter resulted in the assassination of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In response, Iran has targeted neighbouring countries that host US military bases, including Bahrain.

During the call, Dar “reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with Bahrain and its people,” the FO said. He also emphasized the importance of reducing tensions and promoting dialogue to ensure stability in the Middle East.

The FO statement highlighted Pakistan’s consistent position advocating for peaceful resolution of disputes and avoidance of further escalation in the region. Both ministers agreed to continue consultations on regional developments.