Islamabad: Pakistan on Thursday urged the United States and Iran to put an end to retaliatory military strikes and resume technical-level talks, as part of the Islamabad memorandum of understanding, to address the ongoing tensions. The Foreign Ministry spokesman, Tahir Andrabi, emphasized the need for all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid actions that could further destabilize the region.

According to Anadolu Agency, Pakistan, which has played a key mediating role since the conflict began on February 28, remains committed to fostering dialogue and diplomacy. Tahir Andrabi reiterated that sustained engagement and negotiations are the only viable paths to achieving lasting peace, stability, and progress. Pakistan continues its efforts to engage with key interlocutors to de-escalate the tensions between the US and Iran.

The statement from Pakistan comes amidst continued missile exchanges between the US and Iran, as tensions over the Strait of Hormuz persist. The Islamabad memorandum, signed last month by the US and Iranian presidents, outlined a 60-day period for talks aimed at reaching a final agreement to end the conflict permanently. Despite challenges in the implementation of this agreement, Andrabi assured that Pakistan will persist in advocating for an end to violence and the resumption of talks as per the MoU and Pakistan-Qatar joint statement of June 22.

Following the interim deal, US and Iranian negotiators engaged in discussions in Switzerland, with mediation efforts led by Pakistan and Qatar. Andrabi expressed hope that all parties would remain committed to dialogue and diplomacy to resolve outstanding issues.

Addressing the impact of the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, Andrabi noted the adverse effects on countries, particularly those from the Global South, in terms of global energy supplies, trade, and food security. He highlighted the urgent need to address these issues and expressed hope for the early normalization of the situation, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety, security, and freedom of maritime navigation.

While Iran insists on maintaining control over the strait, the US has reinstated its blockade of Iranian ports, further complicating the situation.