ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday strongly condemned the recent attacks on Gulf states following a dangerous escalation in the Middle East, holding telephone conversations with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to express Pakistan’s complete solidarity.
The premier described the situation as a perilous regional crisis triggered by prior strikes on Iran by Israel and the United States, which prompted retaliatory missile launches targeting multiple Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan.
In his statement shared on social media platform X, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s firm stance, stating that the country stands shoulder to shoulder with its brotherly Gulf nations during this difficult period.
Reports from across the region indicate that Iranian ballistic missiles were launched in retaliation, leading to explosions in key cities such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the UAE, as well as Riyadh in Saudi Arabia.
Air defence systems in the affected countries intercepted many of the incoming projectiles, though some debris caused damage and at least one civilian casualty in Abu Dhabi, including the tragic loss of a Pakistani national.
The attacks disrupted normal life, with residents hearing loud blasts, windows shaking, and plumes of smoke rising over landmarks in Dubai and other areas.
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry issued a strong condemnation, describing the strikes as a blatant violation of sovereignty and affirming readiness to support affected nations.
The UAE Ministry of Defence reported successful interceptions but noted the grave nature of the assault on its territory.
This escalation marks one of the most widespread direct confrontations involving Gulf states in recent decades, drawing parallels to historical missile incidents but on a broader scale.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his call with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, conveyed deep concern over the dangerous trajectory of events and reiterated Pakistan’s condemnation of actions that threaten regional stability.
He assured the Saudi leadership of Islamabad’s full support for measures to safeguard sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.
Similarly, during discussions with President Mohamed bin Zayed, the prime minister expressed profound sorrow over the death of the Pakistani citizen in Abu Dhabi.
He reaffirmed the enduring fraternal bonds between Pakistan and the UAE, emphasizing that Pakistan would always stand with its Emirati brothers and sisters in challenging times.
Pakistan’s position underscores its longstanding strategic ties with Gulf countries, rooted in economic cooperation, labour migration, and mutual security interests.
Thousands of Pakistani expatriates reside in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, contributing significantly to both economies and remitting vital foreign exchange to Pakistan.
The prime minister also offered Pakistan’s readiness to play a constructive role in promoting peace and de-escalation in the Middle East.
He expressed hope that the approaching month of Ramadan would bring calm, stability, and diplomatic resolutions to the region.
Analysts note that Pakistan’s balanced yet firm diplomacy in this crisis reflects its commitment to brotherly Muslim nations while advocating restraint to prevent further conflict.
The Foreign Office separately condemned the unprovoked attacks as violations of international law and called for maximum restraint from all parties.
This development occurs amid heightened global attention on Middle East tensions, with airspace closures, flight cancellations, and shelter-in-place advisories issued in several countries.
Pakistan’s swift outreach to Gulf leaders signals its proactive engagement in fostering dialogue and supporting allies during crises.
Observers suggest that continued solidarity from Pakistan could strengthen regional alliances against threats to shared security.
The prime minister’s statements have been widely welcomed in Gulf capitals, reinforcing bilateral relations at a critical juncture.
As the situation evolves, Pakistan remains committed to peace efforts and stands ready to assist its Gulf partners in navigating these turbulent times.