Dar Reiterates Call for De-escalation with Bahraini FM Amid Iran Tensions

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized Pakistan’s call for de-escalation during a recent phone conversation with his Bahraini counterpart, Abdullatif Bin Rashid Al Zayani. Speaking amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following Iran’s retaliatory strikes on US military bases, including Bahrain, Dar reiterated Islamabad’s commitment to peace and stability.

Since February 28 when US-led airstrikes killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran has been battling the United States and Israel. In response, Tehran escalated its conflict by targeting neighboring countries housing U.S. installations—Bahrain being one of them.

According to a statement from the Foreign Office (FO), Dar engaged in an extensive discussion with Al Zayani on various developments in the region. The FO noted that both leaders “exchanged views on the recent attacks, including in Bahrain,” expressing grave concern over these events.

Dar underscored Pakistan’s solidarity with Bahrain and its people, while reiterating Islamabad’s call for de-escalation and dialogue to achieve regional peace. He stressed the importance of efforts towards a peaceful resolution.

A day prior to this conversation, Iran launched an attack on Al Ma’ameer oil facility in Bahrain, resulting in fire at the site along with significant material damage. King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa responded by stating that such “unprecedented attacks” cannot be justified.

This incident underscores the ongoing tension and highlights the critical need for diplomatic channels to address conflicts. Dar’s stance on de-escalation and dialogue serves as a reminder of Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability, paralleling Bahrain’s call for peace amidst escalating hostilities in their region.