Pakistan Denounces US Attacks on Iran Amid Diplomatic Contradictions
On Sunday, Pakistan publicly condemned the recent US military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, calling the actions a violation of international law. This condemnation comes just one day after Pakistan announced its intention to nominate former US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Diplomacy Over Conflict: Pakistan’s Stance on the Iran Crisis
Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep concern about the escalation of violence, cautioning that further tension could have severe repercussions not only regionally but globally. The ministry emphasized, “Diplomacy is the only viable path to resolve the ongoing crisis involving Iran.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Response
In a direct diplomatic move, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif personally reached out to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to condemn the US attacks on Iran. A statement from the Prime Minister’s office highlighted Islamabad’s serious opposition to the military actions and underscored the importance of regional stability.
Public Backlash and Protest in Karachi
The strikes have ignited strong reactions on the ground. In Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, thousands gathered to protest the US and Israeli military actions. Demonstrators marched with a large American flag bearing Donald Trump’s image laid on the street, which they trampled as a sign of dissent. The crowd voiced vehement chants against America, Israel, and Pakistan’s regional adversary, India.
A Complex Diplomatic Puzzle: Nobel Nomination Controversy
Just a day prior, Pakistan praised Trump as a “genuine peacemaker” for his role in facilitating the resolution of a four-day conflict between Pakistan and India last month. Officials lauded his strategic foresight and statesmanship, igniting questions about the apparent inconsistency in Pakistan’s foreign policy messaging.
Attempts to obtain comments from Pakistan’s Information Minister and Foreign Ministry on this contradiction were unsuccessful as both remained unresponsive to inquiries.
The Broader Implications
- Pakistan’s condemnation highlights growing tensions in a volatile region already fraught with conflict.
- The US strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites risk destabilizing an already fragile geopolitical landscape.
- Pakistan’s dual stance reflects the complex interplay of diplomacy, regional politics, and global alliances.
This episode underscores the delicate balance countries navigate when handling international crises, especially amid rising hostilities and conflicting interests.