Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Monday stressed the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement and collective efforts to de-escalate tensions and ensure peace and stability in the Middle East during separate calls with his Turkish and Iraqi counterparts.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on X, Dar spoke with Türkiye’s FM Hakan Fidan on the evolving regional situation following recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

“Both leaders reviewed the latest developments in the region, including the recent announcement by the US president regarding a temporary halt in hostilities,” the statement said.

It added that Dar emphasised the importance of continued diplomatic engagement to ensure peace and stability in the region and beyond.

Earlier, Dar also held a telephone conversation with Iraqi counterpart Fuad Hussein to discuss the prevailing situation.

“Both leaders expressed deep concern over the ongoing regional escalation and its wider implications,” the statement said.

The Foreign Office said FM Dar underscored the need for collective efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent further instability, stressing that dialogue and adherence to international law remain essential for ensuring peace, security and stability.

The two leaders also exchanged Eid greetings, the ministry added.

The current Middle East conflict erupted on February 28, 2026, when US and Israeli forces launched coordinated strikes on Iran. The attacks quickly escalated, with Iran retaliating through drone and missile strikes targeting US assets and allied interests across the Gulf.

Pakistan has maintained a cautious but supportive stance, calling for restraint and dialogue while avoiding direct involvement. Islamabad has expressed solidarity with Iran, highlighting historical, cultural, and economic ties. Officials have engaged in diplomatic efforts, with PM Shehbaz and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who also serves as foreign minister, holding regular calls with relevant regional leaders to urge de-escalation.

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Officials have engaged in diplomatic efforts, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and DPM Dar, who also serves as foreign minister, holding regular calls with relevant regional leaders to urge de-escalation.

After conflict, Dar also held telephonic conversations with his counterparts from several Gulf states and other countries, stressing the importance of de-escalation and emphasising the need to pursue dialogue and diplomacy in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter.