Islamabad (The COW News Digital) Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has stated that Iran had agreed not to develop nuclear weapons and that positive progress was being made in negotiations before military strikes were carried out against Tehran.
Addressing the Senate, Dar presented a detailed policy statement on the evolving regional situation following attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran and Iran’s subsequent retaliatory actions. He said Pakistan strongly condemned the attack on Iran and consistently advocated for a diplomatic resolution.
Dar told lawmakers that negotiations between Washington and Tehran were proceeding constructively, with Oman playing a mediatory role. “There was optimism that talks were moving in a positive direction when the attack occurred,” he said, comparing the development to a similar escalation last June.
He revealed that he had also met U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, adding that Iran had agreed not to pursue nuclear weapons. According to Dar, Pakistan supported Iran’s right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy, while the United States sought the complete dismantling of Iran’s nuclear program. “We advocated for Iran’s right to maintain a peaceful nuclear program,” he emphasized.
The foreign minister noted that in response to U.S. and Israeli actions, Iran targeted American bases in Gulf countries, which also impacted certain airports. He stressed that Pakistan does not wish to become entangled in the conflict and continues to urge restraint from all sides.
Dar said Pakistan even offered to facilitate mediation between the U.S. and Iran in Islamabad. He claimed Pakistan was the only country to openly condemn the strikes, including at the United Nations Security Council, where it called for restraint and dialogue. He added that Iran’s parliament expressed gratitude toward Pakistan for its position.
Dar further highlighted that, for the first time in 12 years, the Security Council passed a resolution by consensus, calling for diplomatic engagement and the easing of tensions. He confirmed that he remains in direct contact with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability, constructive diplomacy, and international peace.
