Pakistan steps up US-Iran mediation, urges reopening of Strait of Hormuz

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday said it is maintaining sustained diplomatic engagement with both United States and Iran to support de-escalation and ceasefire efforts amid ongoing regional tensions.

Addressing the weekly briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said negotiations remain active, stressing that “the clock of negotiations has not stopped.” He described recent mediation efforts as constructive, noting that ceasefire understandings have helped prevent further escalation and civilian casualties.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, Andrabi called for the immediate restoration of normal shipping activity, warning that its continued closure threatens global energy supplies and trade flows. The vital sea corridor, through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil and gas supplies pass, has remained disrupted amid the conflict, pushing up energy prices and raising fears of an economic slowdown.

He said Pakistan’s diplomatic push—led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and senior military leadership—reflects a commitment to dialogue-driven conflict resolution.

The spokesperson detailed high-level engagements, including contacts between Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, consultations with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, meetings with Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and participation in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where the premier also met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

According to Andrabi, these efforts have reinforced Pakistan’s role in facilitating recent US-Iran ceasefire understandings and advancing regional peace, drawing acknowledgment from international partners.

Efforts for Overseas Pakistanis

Responding to queries, the spokesperson said authorities are working to secure the release of Pakistani crew members aboard a hijacked vessel off the coast of Somalia, with assurances from regional authorities that the situation is being closely monitored.

He added that over 80 Pakistanis detained in Cambodia have been granted consular access and will be repatriated after legal formalities, while 27 detainees in Kampala are returning home, with others expected to follow.

Afghan Shelling Condemned

The Foreign Office also condemned recent cross-border shelling by Afghanistan in South Waziristan, including Angoor Adda, which injured civilians and damaged homes.

Andrabi expressed solidarity with affected families and reiterated Pakistan’s stance that Afghan territory must not be used for attacks against it, dismissing allegations from Kabul as “propaganda.”