Business Recorder

'Give peace a little more chance': PM Shehbaz urges restraint amid escalating Middle East tensions

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday expressed concern over the recent escalation of violence in the Middle East, warning that the fragile nature of the existing ceasefire could lead to serious consequences and undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at securing lasting peace. In a statement posted on social media platform X, the prime minister said the latest surge in violence served as a stark reminder of the risks associated with a tenuous ceasefire and the devastating consequences that could follow if hostilities intensify. “As we work earnestly and painstakingly, together with our brothers and partners, to find a peaceful diplomatic solution to the conflict, and especially when the final objective is just about to be achieved, we sincerely urge all sides to exercise restraint and give peace a little more chance,” he said. Shehbaz said Pakistan, along with its regional partners, remained committed to pursuing a diplomatic resolution to the conflict and stressed the importance of avoiding actions that could derail progress toward peace. The prime minister urged all parties to remain committed to dialogue and diplomacy, saying these offered a far more promising path than violence and destruction. “Let us continue to remain on the path of peace and diplomacy, which have bright prospects of success, instead of violence and destruction,” he added. The statement comes after Iran and Israel traded fire for the first time since the Pakistan-brokered ceasefire took hold in April, despite US President Donald Trump calling for restraint. The flare-up saw Israel striking Iran after Tehran targeted it in vengeance for an airstrike on Beirut’s southern suburbs on Saturday. Israel struck the Lebanese capital despite the US announcement of a truce plan last week. Ceasefire agreements for Lebanon have failed to secure peace due to Israel’s escalated operations, including strikes, multiple forced displacement orders and the capture of the historic Beaufort Castle.

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