The Middle East is currently passing through an extremely dangerous and sensitive phase in history. The recent military tensions between Iran and the United States have not only endangered peace in the region but have also caused severe instability in global politics, the economy, and the international security system. Following the attacks carried out on Iran by the United States and Israel, the situation rapidly escalated into a major confrontation. This war is no longer confined to just two countries; its effects are being felt across the entire Middle East.

Tensions have spread across Iran, Israel, Lebanon, Iraq, and the Gulf countries, and the eyes of the entire world are now focused on this crisis. In such delicate circumstances, Pakistan has played a balanced and positive role in the diplomatic arena as a responsible and peace-loving state. Pakistan has repeatedly conveyed to the international community that war is not the solution to any problem; rather, dialogue and diplomacy are the only paths that can lead to lasting peace. The tension between Iran and the United States is not a new phenomenon. Since the Iranian Revolution of 1979, relations between the two countries have remained strained. However, in recent months, the situation deteriorated to such an extent that the tension transformed into open conflict. The United States and Israel targeted various Iranian military and strategic installations, after which Iran responded strongly by launching retaliatory missile and drone attacks. Within just a few days, this confrontation engulfed the entire region in instability. Iran described the attack as open aggression against its sovereignty and made it clear that it would take every possible measure to defend itself.

What the world needs today is not confrontation but dialogue and diplomacy.

What the world needs today is not confrontation but dialogue and diplomacy.

According to recent global reports, this war has caused large-scale human and financial losses. Various international sources indicate that more than one thousand people have been killed in Iran so far, and thousands have been injured, including a significant number of women and children. As a result of Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes, several people were also killed in Israel, and hundreds were injured. In addition, attacks on American military bases in the region have reportedly resulted in casualties and injuries among U.S. soldiers.

According to estimates by the United Nations, the war has displaced hundreds of thousands of people within Iran, giving rise to a serious humanitarian crisis. Infrastructure has also suffered extensive damage, and electricity, water, and other essential services have been disrupted in several cities. The effects of this war are not limited to the loss of human lives; the global economy is also being severely affected by the crisis.

The Persian Gulf is a major hub for global oil supply, and the rising tensions there have created serious anxiety in the international energy market. A noticeable increase in global oil prices has already been observed, and several countries may face an energy crisis. If the war continues for a longer period, its impact on global trade and the world economy could become even more severe. Developing countries, particularly those that import oil, are likely to suffer the most from this situation. In such sensitive circumstances, Pakistan has played an important diplomatic role as a responsible state striving for peace. Pakistan’s foreign policy has always emphasised that regional conflicts should be resolved through dialogue rather than war. At the United Nations and other international forums, Pakistan has consistently taken the position that the spread of war in the Middle East must be stopped immediately because its consequences could affect the entire world.

Pakistani diplomats have urged the international community to play an active role in resolving the crisis and to make efforts to bring both sides to the negotiating table. During important sessions held at the United Nations, Pakistan supported two significant resolutions aimed at reducing tensions in the region and paving the way for a ceasefire. These resolutions called for an immediate ceasefire and for resolving the conflict through diplomatic negotiations. Another resolution condemned Iran’s missile and drone attacks on Gulf countries, and Pakistan also supported this measure. Preventing further escalation of tensions remains Pakistan’s primary objective. Pakistan has clearly stated that if this war is not stopped immediately, its consequences will affect not only the Middle East but also global peace and stability. This stance further strengthens Pakistan’s image at the international level as a responsible and peace-loving state.

Pakistan’s diplomacy is not only about advocating peace at the global level but also about preventing another large-scale war in the region. Pakistan’s leadership has repeatedly emphasised that the Middle East has already suffered from numerous wars and conflicts, and another war could bring even greater devastation to the region. For this reason, Pakistan continues to urge the international community through diplomatic efforts to take active steps toward resolving the crisis.

On the other hand, Pakistan also faces threats of terrorism along its own borders. In recent times, there has been an increase in terrorist incidents within Pakistan, and evidence from these attacks often points toward terrorist organisations operating from Afghanistan. Pakistan has repeatedly demanded that Afghan authorities prevent their territory from being used for terrorism against Pakistan. However, when these attacks intensified, Pakistan had to take firm measures to safeguard its national security. In this context, the Pakistan Army targeted the hideouts of terrorists located in Afghanistan. These actions were carried out under Pakistan’s right of self-defence and were intended to eliminate elements involved in terrorist activities inside Pakistan.

Pakistan’s position is clear: it will take every possible measure to protect its territory and its citizens and will not allow anyone to use their land for terrorism against Pakistan. Pakistan’s armed forces are the guarantors of the country’s security and sovereignty. In the war against terrorism, the Pakistan Army has made unparalleled sacrifices. Thousands of officers and soldiers have laid down their lives to establish peace in the country. The people of Pakistan view these sacrifices with great respect and pride. Even today, the Pakistan Army remains fully prepared to defend the country’s borders, and if the nation faces any threat, it is ready to make every possible sacrifice. Pakistan’s defence policy has always been based on peace. However, if anyone attempts to challenge Pakistan’s sovereignty or security, a strong response will be given.

The Pakistan Army is not only protecting the borders but is also playing an important role in maintaining internal security. The bravery and determination shown by Pakistan’s armed forces in the ongoing fight against terrorism are recognised around the world. History shows that wars often complicate problems rather than solve them. What the world needs today is not confrontation but dialogue and diplomacy. Pakistan stands before the international community with this message. On one hand, it is making diplomatic efforts at the United Nations to promote peace, and on the other, it remains fully vigilant in protecting its national security. Operations against terrorists in Afghanistan and the preparedness of the Pakistan Army to defend its borders clearly demonstrate that Pakistan will not compromise on its security under any circumstances. In the current global situation, it is essential that all countries choose the path of negotiation rather than war. If this conflict spreads further, its consequences could be disastrous for the entire world. Pakistan’s position is clear: peace is the foundation of development and stability, and the world must choose this path. Through its diplomatic efforts and defensive resolve, Pakistan is not only protecting its national interests but also playing a positive role in promoting global peace.

The writer is an old Aitchisonian who believes in freedom of expression, a freelance columnist, entrepreneur and social activist.

© Daily Times