ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said Pakistan had made utmost efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East and would continue its diplomatic push to help end the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
Speaking during a high-level meeting, the prime minister said Pakistan was being significantly affected by the prolonged conflict, which began on February 28, and was facing economic challenges as a result. He added that the government was actively working to reduce tensions and promote peace.
The conflict has plunged the Middle East into turmoil, with Iran blocking the Strait of Hormuz — a critical global shipping route — and launching retaliatory strikes following initial attacks by US and Israeli forces.
Pakistan has positioned itself as an intermediary between Washington and Tehran, intensifying diplomatic efforts to facilitate dialogue. In this regard, Islamabad hosted key regional ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Egypt, and conveyed messages between the two sides.
Earlier this week, Pakistan and China jointly urged all parties to halt hostilities and initiate peace talks at the earliest.
Addressing the meeting, the prime minister revealed that two Pakistani vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz had safely crossed due to efforts led by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir and other officials.
He said the deputy prime minister was working tirelessly to ease tensions, adding, “We have made every effort to cool down the flames of war in the region.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz said provincial chief ministers had assured full cooperation to address wartime challenges, while the federal government had reduced the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) by Rs100 billion within three weeks. He added that lawmakers had also taken steps to conserve fuel.
Highlighting key priorities, the prime minister said protecting citizens, safeguarding the agriculture sector and ensuring smooth goods transportation remained critical. He stressed that controlling inflation was also among the government’s top concerns.
He underscored the need for close coordination between the federation and provinces, urging all stakeholders to utilise resources collectively to navigate the challenging situation.