Pakistan urges to 'give peace a little more chance' as US, Iran engage in fresh round of hostilities

Pakistan has appealed for restraint from both the United States and Iran as the two nations engage in a fresh round of hostilities, urging all parties to "give peace a little more chance." The plea was made by Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the UN, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, during a United Nations Security Council meeting.

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As we work earnestly and painstakingly, together with our friends 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

Ahmad stated that as diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful solution continue, "we sincerely urge all sides to exercise restraint and give peace a little more chance." This statement followed US attacks within Iran, which President Donald Trump attributed to the downing of a US Apache helicopter. Iran responded by stating it had attacked bases and other targets in the Gulf.

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Events of the last few days have amply underscored the fragility of the situation, the risk of escalation and the need for diplomatic efforts to come to fruition – sooner than later

These clashes represent a significant escalation since the two countries agreed to a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire in April. The renewed hostilities have cast doubt on the possibility of a deal to end the war, which began on February 28 with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. During the UNSC session, Ambassador Ahmad expressed deep concern over the heightened tensions and renewed conflict in the region.

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The recent surge in violence in the Middle East is a “stark reminder of the dangers associated with a tenuous ceasefire and the unbearable consequences it may lead to”

He emphasized the fragility of the situation and the risk of escalation, stating that diplomatic efforts must succeed "sooner than later." The ambassador regretted that the breakdown of diplomacy and outbreak of hostilities have negatively impacted discussions on the Iran nuclear issue and disrupted the IAEA's verification mandate. He concluded by stating that the cycle of violence and instability must end for the sake of regional and international peace, security, and prosperity.

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The cycle of violence and instability must end for the good of regional and international peace, security and prosperity