Pakistan Condemns U.S. Strike on Iran, Affirms Tehran’s Right to Self-Defense

In a strongly worded statement, Pakistan has condemned the recent United States military strike on Iran, asserting Tehran’s inherent right to self-defense under international law. The condemnation comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East, following the U.S. Strike targeting what Washington claimed were Iran’s nuclear development sites. The incident has sparked global debate and concern about the potential for broader regional conflict.

The Pakistani Foreign Ministry issued the statement late Sunday evening, labeling the U.S. strike as a “clear violation of international norms and sovereign rights.” A spokesperson stated, “Pakistan strongly condemns this unprovoked act of aggression. Every sovereign nation has the right to protect its territorial integrity, and Iran is no exception.” The Ministry further emphasized the importance of restraint, diplomacy, and adherence to the United Nations Charter.

Diplomatic Positioning and Strategic Balancing

Pakistan’s condemnation is significant, not only for its substance but also for its timing. Just days earlier, Pakistan made headlines by recommending former U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize due to his role in previous diplomatic engagements. This contradiction — applauding Trump’s peace efforts while denouncing the latest U.S. military action under his influence — has triggered questions about Pakistan’s diplomatic balancing act.

Analysts suggest that Pakistan is attempting to maintain a delicate equilibrium in its foreign policy, trying to appease Western powers while simultaneously reaffirming solidarity with its regional neighbors, especially Iran. “It’s a fine line for Islamabad,” says political analyst Dr. Asif Munir. “They need to preserve their relationship with the West for economic and military support, but public opinion and regional dynamics compel them to stand with Iran at times like these.”

Solidarity with Iran

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also extended support to newly elected Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian during a phone call, reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and Iran’s sovereignty. The two leaders discussed the importance of dialogue over confrontation and stressed the need for Muslim nations to present a unified front against foreign interventions.

The Pakistani Prime Minister’s Office stated, “Pakistan stands with Iran in these testing times and urges all stakeholders to prioritize peace and diplomatic engagement.”

This gesture of support has been well received in Tehran, where Iranian officials thanked Islamabad for its principled stance. Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani tweeted his appreciation for Pakistan’s “courageous and honest position against unlawful aggression.”

Public Response and Protests

The U.S. strike has also ignited strong public reactions in Pakistan. In major cities including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, thousands of people participated in protest rallies organized by religious and political groups. Demonstrators carried banners reading “Down with America” and “Iran has the right to defend itself,” and called for a boycott of U.S. products.

Security was heightened in sensitive areas, although the protests remained largely peaceful. Civil society organizations and religious scholars echoed the government’s sentiment, urging the international community to act against “imperialist aggression” and double standards in the enforcement of international law.

“This isn’t just about Iran,” said protestor Saba Ali in Karachi. “It’s about how powerful countries continuously violate the sovereignty of others without consequence. Today it’s Iran; tomorrow it could be any of us.”

Broader Geopolitical Implications

The strike and subsequent condemnation have far-reaching implications for South Asia and the Middle East. For Pakistan, which shares a long border and deep cultural ties with Iran, the incident presents a critical moment in its foreign policy trajectory. Experts note that Islamabad could play a more active mediating role in de-escalating regional tensions, especially given its historical relationships with both Washington and Tehran.

Additionally, Pakistan’s condemnation could impact its relations with Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states, some of which have backed U.S. positions in past regional conflicts. However, Pakistan’s growing alignment with China and its interest in regional stability through initiatives like the China-Iran-Pakistan economic corridor may shape its future strategy.

Call for International Intervention

Pakistan’s statement concluded with a call for immediate intervention from international bodies such as the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). It urged the global community to hold accountable those responsible for breaches of international peace and to establish mechanisms to prevent similar future incidents.

“Unilateral military actions threaten not just one nation, but the peace and stability of the entire region,” the Foreign Ministry warned.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s unequivocal condemnation of the U.S. strike on Iran reflects both a principled stand on sovereignty and a strategic diplomatic maneuver. As tensions remain high and global actors weigh their responses, Islamabad’s voice adds to the chorus calling for de-escalation, legal accountability, and respect for international norms. Whether this statement leads to tangible diplomatic shifts or remains a symbolic gesture will depend on how regional and global powers react in the days to come.

Reference:  امریکی حملے کی شدید مذمت کرتے ہیں، ایران کو دفاع کا حق حاصل ہے : پاکستان