Pakistan Expresses Concern Over Escalation in Middle East

Pakistan has voiced “deep concern” over the recent escalation in the Middle East following Iran’s attack on Israel, labeling it as a “failure of diplomacy.”

In a statement issued by the Foreign Office, Pakistan expressed its worries over the unfolding events in the region. The statement comes in the wake of Tehran’s launch of more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel as retaliation for an Israeli airstrike on its Damascus consulate.

Israeli army spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirmed that Iranian missiles caused light damage to a military installation in southern Israel, with 99% of the missiles intercepted and shot down.

Adding to the tensions, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels also launched multiple drones at Israel following Iran’s drone assault against the country.

Iran has issued a warning to Israel of a larger attack if it retaliates, with Tehran’s Chief of Staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri cautioning Washington against backing Israeli military action. Bagheri also warned that any support for Israeli retaliation would result in US bases becoming targets.

Pakistan has urged all parties to exercise restraint and work towards de-escalation to stabilize the situation and restore peace. The Foreign Office emphasized the need for international efforts to prevent the expansion of hostilities and called for a ceasefire in Gaza.

The United Nations Security Council is set to convene today following Israel’s call for a meeting after Tehran’s attack. Additionally, G7 leaders will discuss the situation in a video call today upon Italy’s request, as Italy currently holds the group’s presidency.

Several countries, including China and Saudi Arabia, have also expressed concerns, calling for calm and restraint to prevent further escalation in the region.