Following a US attack on Iran, Pakistan condemned the action, stating it violated international law. This comes just days after Pakistan nominated Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Iran US Conflict: Escalating tensions between Iran and the United States have injected new volatility into global politics. Pakistan's role and response in this conflict have become a subject of significant discussion. Following recent missile strikes by the US on three major Iranian nuclear sites, Pakistan has issued sharp criticism of the American action. This is the same Pakistan that, only days prior, advocated for awarding US President Donald Trump the Nobel Peace Prize.
Pakistan's Shifting Stance Towards the US
Until last week, Pakistan was highly complimentary of the United States. Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, had lunch with US President Donald Trump at the White House. Following this meeting, high-ranking Pakistani officials publicly praised Trump, going so far as to call for him to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif also voiced his support for this nomination.
However, following the US attack on Iran, Pakistan's policy has undergone a significant shift. The Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs bly condemned the American attack, characterizing it as a violation of international law.
Pakistan's Official Statement on the US Attack
The Pakistani Foreign Ministry clarified that the US attack on three major Iranian nuclear sites poses a threat to regional peace. The ministry stated that this action could further escalate tensions in the Middle East, a development that deeply concerns Pakistan.
Signaling Support for Iran
Pakistan and Iran share a border spanning approximately 900 kilometers. While relations between the two countries have experienced fluctuations, Pakistan has now openly voiced its support for Iran. Pakistan asserted that under the United Nations Charter, Iran has the right to act in self-defense. This statement indicates Pakistan's intention to stand with Iran in the current circumstances.
Pakistan's Concerns Regarding the Heightened Tensions
The Foreign Ministry's statement also highlighted the potential for increased violence and instability throughout the region as a result of the US action. A worsening situation could have repercussions felt from Central Asia to South Asia. Pakistan appealed to all relevant parties to exercise restraint and seek a solution through dialogue.
Pakistan emphasized that instead of escalating tensions, all nations should work towards a resolution through mutual communication and diplomacy. The Pakistani government suggested initiating a dialogue process involving Iran, Israel, and the United States to establish peace and stability in the region.
Pakistan's Changed Perception of Donald Trump
It is noteworthy that just days before, the Pakistani government had nominated US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. This nomination, following General Munir's visit to the US, was viewed as an example of the growing relationship between the two countries. However, with the US's direct attack on Iran, Pakistan's stance has completely reversed.