June 24: Pakistan on Monday strongly condemned a recent United States airstrike on Iranian territory, calling it a “violation of international law” and urging all parties to exercise restraint. The condemnation comes just days after Islamabad made headlines by nominating former US President Donald Trump for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pakistan expressed “deep concern” over the escalation in the region, stating that such actions could severely undermine peace and stability in the Middle East.
“We believe that disputes and conflicts must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, not through unilateral use of force,” the statement read. “Pakistan calls on all sides to show restraint and respect international norms.”
The US airstrike reportedly targeted a suspected Iranian weapons facility near Isfahan in response to what Washington described as imminent threats to American forces in the region. Iran has condemned the strike, labeling it an act of aggression and warning of serious consequences.
The timing of Pakistan’s condemnation has drawn attention, as it follows the country’s recent decision to nominate Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. Pakistan’s envoy to Norway submitted the nomination last week, citing Trump’s role in the Abraham Accords and his administration’s avoidance of full-scale conflict with Iran during his presidency.
The dual stance has sparked debate among analysts and opposition figures in Pakistan. Some have pointed to a lack of coherence in Islamabad’s foreign policy, particularly in light of its traditionally strong ties with both Washington and Tehran.
“It appears contradictory to praise Trump’s peace efforts while condemning US actions under the same foreign policy framework,” said Dr. Fahad Hussain, a foreign affairs expert. “This reflects the diplomatic tightrope Pakistan is attempting to walk amid growing regional instability.”
Officials in Islamabad, however, maintain that the two positions are not contradictory. According to sources in the Foreign Office, Pakistan remains committed to promoting peace and dialogue in the region and will continue to speak out against any actions that risk exacerbating tensions.
Pakistan has long maintained a delicate balancing act in its relationships with the United States and Iran. While the US remains a key strategic partner, Iran shares a border with Pakistan and plays an important role in regional affairs.
The airstrike comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Gulf, with fears of a broader conflict escalating. The international community has called for calm, with the United Nations urging both the US and Iran to avoid further provocation.
As the situation develops, Pakistan is expected to continue advocating for diplomatic solutions while closely monitoring the geopolitical fallout from the latest military confrontation.
