Islamabad (TDI): Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, held a telephone conversation with France’s Foreign Minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, to discuss the evolving regional situation and strengthen bilateral relations.
During the call, the French side commended Pakistan for its role in helping secure an initial ceasefire between Iran and the United States and expressed support for Islamabad’s continued diplomatic efforts to achieve long-term peace in the region.
Both sides shared serious concerns over ongoing ceasefire violations in Lebanon and stressed the need for all parties to fully respect and implement the agreement. They emphasized that maintaining the truce is critical for the success of upcoming peace negotiations.
The conversation also reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation, particularly in trade and economic sectors, while agreeing to stay in close coordination on regional developments.
The discussion comes at a time of rising tensions, as Israel has continued military strikes in Lebanon despite the ceasefire between Washington and Tehran. US President Donald Trump has reportedly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to limit these operations, expressing hope that a broader ceasefire could still hold.
Read More: Pakistan Intensifies Diplomacy as Lebanon Crisis Threatens US–Iran Talks
However, the situation on the ground remains volatile. Israeli attacks in Lebanon have intensified in recent days, resulting in significant casualties and raising concerns that the fragile diplomatic process could be derailed.
Pakistan, which played a key mediating role in the US-Iran truce, has consistently maintained that the ceasefire should also apply to Lebanon. Officials warn that continued hostilities risk undermining peace efforts and could trigger a wider regional escalation.
Read More: Pakistan, France Leaders Urge an End to Violence in Lebanon
A major challenge remains the differing interpretations of the ceasefire. While the United States considers Israel’s actions outside the scope of the agreement, Iran argues that the ongoing strikes violate the truce and could jeopardize the chances of meaningful negotiations.
