Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday chaired a high-level meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) to review the regional security situation following the Iran-Israel conflict and subsequent US strikes on Iranian territory, according to informed sources.
The meeting, held at the Prime Minister House, was attended by the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, the chiefs of the Pakistan Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as senior federal ministers and top intelligence officials.
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, and former interior minister Rana Sanaullah were also present at the meeting.
The National Security Committee (NSC) strongly condemned the June 22 US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, terming the attacks a clear violation of the United Nations Charter, international laws, and IAEA resolutions.
According to an official statement, the country’s political and military leadership reviewed the rapidly evolving situation in the Middle East and voiced grave concern over the escalating tensions following the Israeli aggression on Iran. The committee stated that Iran has the full right to defend itself in accordance with the UN Charter.
The committee reiterated Pakistan’s clear and consistent position on the Middle East crisis and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting peace and stability in the region. It praised the country’s diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing further escalation and vowed to continue engaging with all relevant parties.
The committee warned that irresponsible actions could trigger a wider and more dangerous conflict in the region.
The NSC expressed deep regret that the attacks were carried out during a period when constructive dialogue between Iran and the United States was reportedly underway. “These reckless actions have derailed the diplomatic process, increased the risk of large-scale conflict, and undermined the prospects for peaceful resolution,” the statement read.
Emphasizing the importance of peaceful dialogue, the committee urged all sides to resolve their disputes through negotiations and diplomatic channels in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter. The committee also called for full adherence to international human rights and humanitarian law.
The NSC expressed deep sympathy with the government and people of Iran over the loss of innocent lives and condemned the targeting of nuclear sites, calling it a blatant violation of the UN Charter and IAEA regulations.
Moreover, sources said, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir briefed the participants on his recent visit to the United States and took the civil-military leadership into confidence regarding Pakistan’s security engagements and strategic outlook.
Sources further revealed that the meeting included a detailed briefing on Pakistan’s recent diplomatic efforts, led by former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, aimed at promoting regional peace and stability. The committee also voiced serious concern over threats related to "India's water aggression", with sources indicating that Pakistani forces are closely monitoring Indian movements in this regard.
The NSC reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to counter any provocative actions and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding national interests at all costs.
"The National Security Committee remains vigilant and fully prepared to thwart any nefarious designs against Pakistan," said a source privy to the meeting’s proceedings. It vowed to continue diplomatic efforts to save the region from a large-scale war.
