KARACHI, Pakistan

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday directed authorities to accelerate the export of surplus food items to Gulf countries amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, his office said in a statement.

Sharif issued the directive while presiding over a meeting to review the export of food items to the Middle East and Pakistan’s port and maritime operations.

He called for a "comprehensive" plan to expand flight operations and enhance port efficiency, while ensuring an uninterrupted domestic supply, in view of the evolving regional situation.

During the meeting, the premier was informed that a special committee had approved 40 food items for exporting to Gulf countries amid the escalating regional crisis.

These food items include rice, edible oil, sugar, meat, poultry, powdered milk, dairy products, fruits and vegetables.

Islamabad will use open sea and air routes for exporting food items, with no additional charges for the export of vegetables, fruits and meat.

Sharif asked officials concerned to remain in "close coordination" with the Gulf countries regarding their food security.

“It is our duty to take care of the needs of food in the Gulf countries amid the current regional situation where global supply lines are affected,” the premier stressed.

The US and Israel have maintained airstrikes on Iran since Feb. 28, killing so far over 1,340 people, including then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Tehran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, along with Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, causing casualties and damage to infrastructure while disrupting global markets and aviation.