Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday night held urgent telephone conversations with the ambassadors of Saudi Arabia and Qatar, expressing serious concern over Iran’s reported missile attack on a US military base in Qatar and calling for immediate steps to de-escalate tensions in the region.
In his call with Nawaf bin Saeed Al Malkiy, the ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, the prime minister underscored the gravity of the situation following the Iranian strike and stressed that all possible efforts must be made to de-escalate tensions and restore peace in the region.
"Pakistan would continue to work closely with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to intensify peace efforts," he stated.
The Saudi ambassador appreciated PM Sharif for reaching out to him immediately after this serious development and agreed that both nations must coordinate closely to help secure peace and stability in the region.
Also Read: Iran launches missile attacks on US bases in Qatar
Shortly after, Prime Minister Sharif also spoke with Ali Mubarak Ali Essa Al-Khater, the ambassador of the State of Qatar.
During the conversation, the PM conveyed solidarity with the government and people of Qatar at this difficult time, calling the missile strikes deeply troubling. He emphasized the urgent need for calm and diplomacy in resolving the growing tensions.
The Qatari ambassador thanked the prime minister for Pakistan’s prompt and thoughtful gesture, saying the message of solidarity at this critical time was deeply valued by the leadership and people of Qatar.
Iran strikes US airbase in Qatar
Iran's armed forces said in a statement that they targeted the Al-Udeid base in Qatar with a 'devastating and powerful' missile attack. They said they will not leave any attack on Iran's territory unanswered under any circumstances.
Iran's top security body said in a statement that its armed forces used the same number of bombs that the US had used in attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities. It also said the US base was far from urban facilities and residential areas in Qatar.
