Middle East Escalation ‘Quite Unsettling’, Pakistan Tells UNSC, Urges Resumption of Diplomacy
UNITED NATIONS, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 11th Sep, 2026)
Pakistan has described the recent surge of violence in the Middle East as "quite unsettling" for the region’s peace prospects, emphasizing the resolution of all outstanding issues through diplomatic engagement. This was stated by Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN, during a debate on the Iran nuclear issue at the UN Security Council on Thursday.
"Given the necessary space, diplomacy can still deliver results," said Ambassador Ahmad.
Pakistan, he noted, has actively pursued diplomatic engagement to promote de-escalation, ceasefires, and broader regional stability.
Convened by France, the Council President for September, the session reviewed the work of the 1737 Sanctions Committee concerning Iran under the "Non-Proliferation" agenda item.
The 1737 Sanctions Committee was established by resolution 1737 (2006), originally requiring quarterly reporting to the Council. This changed after the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Iran’s nuclear program, which the Council endorsed through resolution 2231 (2015). That resolution suspended all prior sanctions resolutions, including 1737 (2006), effectively dissolving the 1737 Committee.
In August 2025, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom – the "E3" parties to the JCPOA – triggered the agreement’s "snapback" mechanism, reimposing UN sanctions on Iran.
Ambassador Ahmad reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for resolving all outstanding issues peacefully, through diplomatic engagement and sustained dialogue. He noted that renewed violence and a breakdown in diplomacy have also impacted the consideration of the Iran nuclear issue within the Security Council.
Pakistan, he stressed, has been involved in constructive diplomatic efforts to support de-escalation, ceasefires, and regional stability.
"Through sustained interaction at the leadership level, as well as with active coordination with other regional and global partners, we consistently sought to encourage dialogue, facilitate the exchange of messages, and help create space and conditions conducive to meaningful negotiations," said the Pakistani envoy.
"Our approach underscores Pakistan’s enduring commitment to regional stability and international peace, reflecting our preference for principled, dialogue-oriented diplomacy in addressing geopolitical challenges."
He added that continued divisions have hindered the work of the Council’s subsidiary bodies.
"We hope members will show unity and shoulder our responsibility to uphold international peace and security," he urged.
