Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghaddam, expressed appreciation on Friday for the Pakistani public’s heightened awareness and concern regarding the escalating crisis in the Middle East and Israel’s increasing aggression in the region.
During a media event at the Iranian embassy, Moghaddam skillfully sidestepped questions about why Iran had not consulted with Pakistan amid the escalating conflict with Israel, instead focusing on commending the Pakistani people’s engagement with the unfolding situation. He voiced hopes that others in the region could be equally inspired by this concern.
This praise came amid Iran’s recent diplomatic efforts in the region, where Iranian leaders have engaged in talks with countries like Jordan, Egypt, and Bahrain, despite historically tense relations. Notably, Iran’s First Vice President, Reza Aref, canceled his planned visit to Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s Heads of Government meeting, opting instead to send the trade minister.
The ambassador did suggest some level of discreet diplomacy between Tehran and Islamabad, stating, “Not all engagements are public,” and adding that discussions are ongoing with “our Pakistani brothers.”
Despite several statements from the Pakistani federal government addressing the worsening situation in Gaza and Israeli actions in Lebanon, Pakistan has not been prominently involved in key discussions among Muslim nations regarding the Middle East conflict.
When asked about Iran’s missile strikes on Israel, which reportedly had minimal impact, Moghaddam reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to the cause, criticizing some Muslim nations equipped with advanced fighter jets like F-16s and F-18s for their silence.
Regarding the idea of Iran seeking arms from Pakistan in a prolonged conflict with Israel, the ambassador clarified that Iran had not requested assistance from any country, describing the fight against Israel as “a war between good and evil.” He emphasized that everyone has a role to play without the need for external support.
On the subject of Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Moghaddam stated that nuclear weapons have no place in Iran’s military doctrine, insisting that the country can effectively defend itself without them. However, he did not rule out the possibility of Israel using nuclear weapons against Iran or attacking its nuclear facilities, noting that “in this uncertain world, anything is possible.”
In response to reports suggesting that Israel was not preparing for a nuclear strike on Iran, the ambassador cautioned that such claims could be a tactic to mislead Tehran. He stressed that Iran would respond decisively to any aggression from Israel.
