U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to commend Pakistan’s steadfast observance of the Kashmir ceasefire and its key role in regional stability. Rubio noted that Pakistan’s close ties with Iran position it to be a crucial mediator amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
During the cordial phone call, both leaders discussed major regional and global developments. Sharif praised former President Donald Trump’s leadership, thanking Rubio for helping avert a potential conflict between Pakistan and India. He emphasized that lasting peace in South Asia depends on multilateral dialogue, especially touching on Kashmir, the Indus Waters Treaty, trade, and counter-terrorism.
Sharif expressed concern over rising conflict between Iran and Israel, emphasising that Middle East instability poses threats far beyond the region. He suggested that inclusive diplomatic engagement is the most effective route to peace, and pledged Pakistan’s strong willingness to assist such efforts.
Rubio responded positively, supporting Pakistan’s anti-terrorism operations against BLA, the banned TTP, and other extremist entities. He affirmed full U.S. backing for Pakistan’s efforts, while highlighting shared aims in enhancing trade, energy, minerals, and IT sector cooperation.
Both leaders underscored the importance of sustained high-level engagement, with Sharif reiterating his invitation to President Trump and to Rubio himself for upcoming visits to Pakistan-moves Rubio welcomed, indicating eagerness to deepen U.S.-Pakistan relations.
If This Conflict Escalates, It Will Be Beyond Anyone’s Control: Guterres Warns at UN
Meanwhile, at the UN Security Council, Secretary-General António Guterres opened emergency discussions on the Israel–Iran crisis, calling urgently for a ceasefire. Guterres noted Iran’s commitment to non-proliferation and condemned attacks on medical and civilian infrastructure as violations of international law.
He urged all parties to pursue diplomacy, and welcomed ongoing talks between Europe and Iran. Stressing global stakes, Guterres warned:
“If this crisis escalates further, it could spiral entirely out of control.”
Highlighting the devastating humanitarian toll, he ended with a plea:
“No further expansion of this conflict must be allowed. A ceasefire is urgently needed.”
Secretary Rubio praised Pakistan’s mediation efforts, pledged continued U.S. cooperation, and signaled Washington’s endorsement of Islamabad’s strategic peace role—especially regarding Iran–Israel tension. Simultaneously, the UN opened an emergency session stressing the need for de-escalation through diplomacy.
