Islamabad, At a recent meeting hosted by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) on January 18, 2024, experts emphasized the importance of Iran and Pakistan mitigating their differences to avoid future conflicts and maintain regional stability. The meeting, attended by key figures including chairman IPS Khalid Rahman, security analyst Brigadier (r) Said Nazir, and Pakistan’s former ambassador to Afghanistan Syed Abrar Hussain, focused on the escalating situation on Pakistan’s western frontier.
According to Institute of Policy Studies, the experts expressed that both Iran and Pakistan have acted rationally in their approach to their historical brotherly ties, which is crucial in preventing adversaries from exploiting any disturbances in their relationship. The participants unanimously agreed that Islamabad’s stance was justified and that Tehran should have utilized diplomatic and political channels to address concerns. The necessity of activating peaceful problem-solving mechanisms was underscored to avert a worst-case scenario.
The discussion highlighted the shared threat of terrorism, calling for a collaborative strategic framework and active security cooperation based on mutual trust. The experts were pleased with Islamabad and Tehran’s agreement to de-escalate tensions unconditionally and restore full diplomatic ties.
Historically, Pakistan has maintained warm relations with Iran despite internal and external sensitivities, successfully balancing their ties. The speakers emphasized that any conflict between the two nations would divert global attention away from critical issues like the war in Gaza, ultimately benefiting Israel and its allies, and proving detrimental to Middle East peace and stability.
The meeting addressed concerns about the potential spread of conflict in the Middle East, particularly Israeli aggression against Gaza, to South Asia. Such a development would serve the interests of forces aiming to destabilize the region.
The speakers stressed that both countries must avoid miscalculations, engage in closer dialogue, and resolve issues peacefully. This approach is also vital for their internal stability, considering their socio-political fault lines.
The experts commended China’s approach to the escalation between Iran and Pakistan, noting Beijing’s potential to act as a stabilizing force in promoting peace and stability in South Asia. This role is deemed crucial not only for Chinese interests in the region but also for other regional forces.
In his concluding remarks, Khalid Rahman highlighted that creating a war-like environment in the region benefits external entities rather than local nations. He praised Pakistan’s measured response to the situation, reflecting a mature decision-making process that prefers diplomacy over impulsive actions.
Rahman also pointed out the sudden shift in international attention from critical issues like Gaza and Palestine to the Iran-Pakistan border, suggesting the possibility of narrative manipulation. He commended the leadership of Islamabad and Tehran for their diplomatic approach to maintaining peace and resolving issues, calling for continued focus on diplomacy to de-escalate tensions.