Ankara: Pakistan on Monday urged all sides to give peace “a little more chance” as tensions in the Middle East are heightened after retaliatory strikes carried out by Israel and Iran.

According to Anadolu Agency, the recent surge in violence in the Middle East is a stark reminder of the dangers associated with a tenuous ceasefire and the unbearable consequences it may lead to, as highlighted by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Sharif communicated his concerns via a post on US social media company X, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

The tensions escalated on Sunday when Israel bombed the Lebanese capital, Beirut, despite an ongoing ceasefire. This act prompted Iran to retaliate by launching missiles at northern Israel, leading to several waves of Israeli airstrikes against Iran. The conflict has drawn international attention, with former US President Donald Trump urging both Israel and Iran to cease hostilities immediately through his Truth Social platform.

Sharif further stressed the importance of continuing diplomatic efforts, stating, “As we work earnestly and painstakingly, together with our brothers and partners, to find a peaceful diplomatic solution to the conflict, and especially when the final objective is just about to be achieved, we sincerely urge all sides to exercise restraint and give peace a little more chance.” He called for adherence to peace and diplomacy, which he believes have brighter prospects for success compared to violence and destruction.

The region has been unstable since the US and Israel launched airstrikes on Iran in late February, provoking Iranian retaliation against Israel and other regional countries hosting US assets. A temporary ceasefire was brokered by Pakistan on April 8, but negotiations have stalled due to disputes over its implementation and subsequent regional developments.