Islamabad – Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar has strongly condemned what he termed “unwarranted attacks” against Iran, expressing deep concern over escalating tensions in the region. The condemnation comes amid heightened border clashes between Iran and Pakistan, as well as broader hostilities in the Middle East. Dar’s statement, released by Radio Pakistan, underscores Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability and calls for de-escalation through dialogue.
The situation remains fluid, with reports of continued exchanges of fire and a growing humanitarian impact. Pakistan, even as reaffirming its right to self-defense, has emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. This stance reflects a delicate balancing act for Islamabad, which shares a long and porous border with both Iran and Afghanistan, and is already grappling with its own security challenges.
The immediate trigger for the recent escalation appears to be cross-border strikes carried out by both Iran and Pakistan targeting militant groups operating in the border regions. Iran launched strikes on January 16th against Jaish al-Adl, a militant group that operates in both countries, claiming the group was responsible for attacks on Iranian security forces. Pakistan responded with retaliatory strikes on January 18th, targeting separatist groups allegedly based in Iran. These exchanges have raised fears of a wider conflict and prompted international calls for restraint.
Pakistan Regrets Regional Hostilities
Beyond the direct bilateral tensions, Pakistan has also expressed regret over the broader outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East. A statement released by Pakistan’s Foreign Office, as reported by Dawn, conveyed Islamabad’s concern over the deteriorating security situation and its potential consequences for regional peace and stability. Pakistan has consistently advocated for a peaceful resolution of conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy.
The escalating tensions come at a particularly sensitive time for Pakistan, which is preparing for general elections on February 8th. The security situation along the border and the broader regional instability are likely to be key issues in the upcoming polls. The government is under pressure to demonstrate its ability to protect the country’s interests and maintain stability in the face of external threats.
Iran’s ‘Right to Retaliate’ and Pakistan’s Position
The situation is further complicated by differing international perspectives on the legitimacy of Iran’s actions. While some countries have expressed understanding for Iran’s security concerns, others have condemned the strikes as a violation of international law. WION reported that Pakistan has defied calls from the United States and has backed Iran’s “right to retaliate” against groups operating within its borders, even as Pakistan continues its own bombing campaign against militants in Afghanistan. This position reflects a complex geopolitical calculus for Islamabad, which seeks to maintain good relations with both Iran and the West.
This backing of Iran’s right to retaliate, despite Pakistan’s own ongoing operations, highlights the intricate dynamics at play in the region. Pakistan’s stance appears to be rooted in a desire to avoid being seen as aligning with the US against Iran, a position that could further exacerbate tensions with its neighbor. However, it also raises questions about the consistency of Pakistan’s counter-terrorism policy and its commitment to international norms.
Casualties and Airspace Surveillance
Tragically, the recent escalation has already resulted in casualties. Geo News reported that a Pakistani national was killed in Iranian missile strikes in the United Arab Emirates. The report cited diplomatic officials as confirming the death, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. The incident underscores the potential for unintended consequences and the risk of escalation beyond the immediate border areas.
In response to the heightened threat environment, Pakistan has directed the Air Traffic Control (ATC) to intensify airspace surveillance. Dunya News reported that the ATC has been instructed to closely monitor air traffic and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of civilian aircraft. This move reflects Pakistan’s commitment to protecting its airspace and preventing any potential incidents.
Looking Ahead
As of Saturday, February 28, 2026, the situation remains volatile. While there have been no reports of further direct clashes between Iran and Pakistan in the past 24 hours, the underlying tensions remain high. Pakistan continues to emphasize the importance of dialogue and de-escalation, and is urging all parties to exercise restraint. The immediate priority is to prevent further escalation and create an environment conducive to peaceful negotiations. The next key development will likely be further diplomatic efforts, potentially involving regional and international mediators, to facilitate a ceasefire and address the root causes of the conflict.
This is a developing story, and we will continue to provide updates as they become available. Share your thoughts on this critical situation in the comments below, and please share this article with your networks to assist spread awareness.
