Pakistani, Iranian ministers reaffirm peace commitment after strikes

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar spoke with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on Friday to reaffirm Islamabad's commitment to promoting lasting peace in the region, according to a statement issued by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry. Dar reiterated his country's readiness to play a constructive role in advancing stability during the conversation, which came hours after new military exchanges near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Araghchi expressed appreciation for Pakistan's continued support for the peace process and thanked Islamabad for facilitating the safe repatriation of Iranian crew members and fishermen, the statement noted. The two ministers agreed to remain in close contact as diplomatic efforts proceed.

Regional tensions flare

The telephone exchange occurred late Friday as Washington announced its forces had struck Iranian missile, drone, and radar sites, accusing Tehran of orchestrating an attack on a commercial vessel crossing the waterway. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps subsequently said its naval forces targeted US military positions across the region in response and vowed a harsh response should escalation continue.

Mediated truce holds

Earlier this month, Iran and the United States reached a 14-point understanding brokered by Pakistan that entered into force on June 18 after being electronically signed by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and US President Donald Trump. The agreement includes provisions to end hostilities across multiple fronts including Lebanon, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and lift the US naval blockade on Iran while 60 days of talks continue toward a more comprehensive and lasting deal.