ISLAMABAD: In a significant development indicating easing regional tensions, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced that Iran has agreed to facilitate additional Pakistani vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
“I am pleased to share a great news that the Government of Iran has agreed to allow 20 more ships under the Pakistani flag to pass through the Strait of Hormuz; two ships will cross the Strait daily,” Dar said in a statement on social media.
He termed the move a “constructive gesture” by Tehran, saying it would contribute to peace and stability in the region. “This is a welcome step and a harbinger of peace that will strengthen collective efforts towards stability,” he added.
Dar emphasised that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path forward, highlighting the importance of confidence-building measures between countries amid ongoing tensions.
The development comes as security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz have disrupted global shipping, with threats and attacks forcing many oil tankers to avoid the route. Reports indicate that multiple commercial vessels have been damaged since the conflict began, while a large number of ships remain stranded in the region.
Pakistan has increasingly taken on a diplomatic role in efforts to de-escalate tensions between the United States and Iran, acting as a conduit for communication between the two sides.
Meanwhile, Islamabad is set to host a rare regional meeting involving foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkiye to discuss the ongoing conflict and explore ways to reduce tensions.
The talks, scheduled over two days, will focus on de-escalation efforts and broader regional stability, with participating countries seeking to assess the situation and identify possible diplomatic solutions.
Officials say the meeting could also help establish a mechanism aimed at reducing hostilities, as countries in the region remain concerned about threats to energy supplies and key trade routes.
Pakistan has also conveyed a proposal from Washington to Tehran aimed at ending the conflict and has offered to host negotiations, with indications that potential talks could take place in Islamabad or Ankara.