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ConflictPakistan Deputy PM Dar Urges US-Iran Restraint After West Asia Escalation
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On July 12, 2026, Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called for de-escalation between the United States and Iran following a sharp escalation in West Asia. The US carried out targeted strikes against Iran after Iran attacked a civilian vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, setting it on fire. Iran retaliated by striking neighboring Gulf nations including the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman. The conflict erupted days after President Donald Trump declared the Iran deal over. Dar spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, urging restraint and adherence to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding signed in June 2026, which Pakistan mediated. Dar emphasized dialogue and diplomacy as the only path to stability and reiterated Pakistan's readiness to mediate. Meanwhile, Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei vowed revenge for his father's killing.
Source report
Updated - July 12, 2026 03:37 pm IST — Islamabad
PTI
Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Sunday (July 12, 2026) urged the United States and Iran to exercise restraint following the escalation of conflict in West Asia.
The United States carried out targeted strikes against Iran on Sunday morning after Iran struck a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, setting the container on fire.
Also Read: West Asia war updates on July 12, 2026
Iran responded to the U.S. attacks by targeting neighbouring Gulf nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Oman, AP reported.
The escalation occurred days after President Donald Trump stated that the deal with Iran is over.
Diplomatic Engagement
Mr. Dar, who also serves as Foreign Minister, held a telephone conversation with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi and expressed concerns, according to a statement by the Foreign Office in Islamabad.
"Both leaders exchanged views on the evolving regional situation. DPM/FM stressed upon the parties to follow the path of de-escalation and show restraint, as agreed in the Islamabad MOU in June 2026."
The Islamabad MoU refers to an interim agreement aimed at bringing peace in West Asia, signed by the U.S. and Iran last month. Pakistan also signed the agreement as a mediator.
Call for Dialogue
Mr. Dar stated that dialogue and diplomacy are the only viable path to resolve disputes and achieve peace and stability in the region. He reiterated Pakistan's readiness to continue playing a "constructive role" as a mediator.
The two leaders agreed to remain in close contact, according to the foreign office.
Related Developments
- MEA says 10 Indians rescued, one missing after vessel attacked off Oman
- Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, in his first statement since the funeral of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Saturday, said Iranians would avenge his father's killing, AP reported.
Published — July 12, 2026 03:24 pm IST
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