Pakistani premier urges diplomatic engagement in call with Iranian president amid tensions with US

Shehbaz Sharif, Masoud Pezeshkian exchange views on evolving regional situation, says statement

ISLAMABAD

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a call Thursday with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, urging diplomatic engagement to ease regional tensions.

A statement issued by the prime minister’s office said the two exchanged views on the evolving regional situation, with Sharif underscoring the importance of sustained dialogue and diplomatic engagement for promoting peace, security and development in the region.

It said both reaffirmed the close and fraternal ties between Pakistan and Iran, rooted in shared history, culture and faith.

They agreed to maintain regular high-level contacts and consultations through established institutional mechanisms to further strengthen cooperation across the full spectrum of relations.

The call comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the US in recent weeks, following US President Donald Trump’s remarks that a “massive armada” was moving toward Iran, alongside his demand for Tehran to “come to the table” to negotiate on its nuclear program.

Iranian officials have warned that any US attack would draw a “swift and comprehensive” response, while reiterating that Tehran remains open to talks only under “fair, balanced and noncoercive terms.”