Pakistan, Qatar PMs Hold Talks on Middle East Situation, Peace Efforts

(MENAFN) Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held talks with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani on Monday, focusing on the evolving situation in the Middle East and ongoing diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan.

According to reports, Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s role in promoting peace initiatives and thanked Qatar for its continued support, reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomatic engagement.

Both sides emphasized the need to maintain ceasefire arrangements, avoid further escalation, and work toward restoring stability across the region.

The call marked the second exchange between the two leaders within two days, and also included discussions on strengthening bilateral cooperation.

Sheikh Mohammed, according to reports, expressed full backing for Pakistan’s mediation efforts and called for active engagement from all parties to advance negotiations aimed at reaching a comprehensive agreement that could secure long-term peace in the region.

Regional tensions have remained high since the US and Israel carried out strikes on Iran on 28 February, prompting Iranian retaliation against Israeli territory and US-aligned Gulf partners, as well as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

A ceasefire was later established on 8 April through Pakistani mediation, although subsequent talks in Islamabad reportedly failed to secure a durable settlement. Since 13 April, the US has also enforced a naval blockade targeting Iranian maritime movement in the Strait, according to reports.

MENAFN19052026000045017640ID1111136935