ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday held a telephonic conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, calling for an immediate end to hostilities and a return to normalcy amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the premier strongly condemned the recent attacks on Saudi Arabia and expressed complete solidarity and unequivocal support for the Kingdom and its people during the challenging situation.

While appreciating the Saudi leadership for showing restraint in the current crisis, the prime minister assured that Pakistan would continue to stand by Saudi Arabia, as the Kingdom has always supported Pakistan in difficult times.

The premier emphasised the urgent need for de-escalation, urging all parties to restore peace and stability in the region. He also highlighted the importance of unity and harmony within the Ummah, terming it essential in the prevailing circumstances.

During the conversation, the prime minister briefed the Saudi Crown Prince on Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic outreach, aimed at encouraging dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes among the concerned parties.

The Crown Prince appreciated Pakistan’s efforts for peace, and both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination between the two countries at all levels.

Separately, the prime minister, in a post on X, said he conveyed Eid ul Fitr greetings to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the royal family and the people of Saudi Arabia, while reiterating Pakistan’s strong condemnation of the attacks and reaffirming support for the Kingdom.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following recent military exchanges involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which have raised concerns over broader regional instability.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia had signed a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement last year, under which an attack on either country would be treated as an act of aggression against both.

A day earlier, the prime minister had offered Pakistan’s role as a host for dialogue between the United States and Iran, expressing readiness to facilitate meaningful talks for a comprehensive settlement of the conflict, subject to agreement by both sides.

Recent diplomatic developments suggest ongoing efforts to reduce tensions, with Pakistan reportedly engaging in back-channel diplomacy alongside regional partners to help prevent further escalation.