Pakistan has called for an urgent two-week pause in hostilities amid rising tensions between United States and Iran, as fears grow of a major escalation in the region.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday urged U.S. President Donald Trump to extend his deadline threatening large-scale strikes on Iran’s infrastructure. Sharif also called on Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as a goodwill gesture.
“We urge all warring parties to observe a ceasefire for two weeks to allow diplomacy to achieve a conclusive end to the war,” Sharif said in a public statement, emphasizing the need for long-term regional stability.
Rising Tensions and Global Concerns
The appeal came just hours before a deadline set by President Trump, who warned that failure to reach an agreement could result in devastating consequences. His remarks followed recent U.S. strikes on Iranian targets, including facilities linked to oil exports.
The conflict has already disrupted global energy markets, as Iran has restricted oil transit through the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most critical energy routes—leading to a sharp increase in global oil prices.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
Despite escalating rhetoric, Pakistani officials maintain that diplomatic engagement is progressing. Islamabad has positioned itself as a key mediator, engaging both Washington and Tehran in efforts to de-escalate the crisis.
Sharif’s outreach included direct engagement with top U.S. officials such as JD Vance, Marco Rubio, and Steve Witkoff, alongside Iranian leadership.
Political Reactions in the U.S.
Trump’s warning has sparked strong reactions domestically. Hakeem Jeffries called for immediate congressional action to prevent further escalation, warning of the risk of a broader global conflict.
Uncertain Path Ahead
As tensions reach a critical point, the coming hours are expected to determine whether diplomatic efforts succeed or whether the region faces further escalation with potentially far-reaching consequences.
