PAKISTAN has once again reaffirmed its commitment to a principled and independent foreign policy with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s strong condemnation of last month’s US and Israeli strikes on Iran.
Speaking at SCO Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Tianjin, China, Dar did not mince words. He categorically declared that such illegal actions directed against SCO member states are “unacceptable” and must be rejected outright.
In a world where power politics often dictates diplomatic tone, Pakistan’s unequivocal stance is a breath of fresh air. It underscores the country’s commitment to justice, international law and regional solidarity—values that should be at the core of any credible foreign policy. It is particularly significant that Dar delivered this statement at the SCO platform, a regional body that brings together key players like China, Russia and several Central and South Asian nations, many of whom share Pakistan’s concerns about unilateral aggression. For many observers, Pakistan’s open criticism of the United States may appear surprising, especially at a time when Islamabad and Washington are gradually rebuilding trust and re-engaging on multiple fronts. However, it is precisely this nuance that reflects the maturity and balance of Pakistan’s foreign policy. A true partnership, after all, is built not on blind support, but on mutual respect and the courage to speak truth when necessary. We lauded the United States when President Donald Trump played a constructive role in brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. But the same country that was appreciated for promoting peace cannot be supported when it pursues aggression. Pakistan’s condemnation of the US strike on Iranian nuclear sites, especially in support of Israel’s belligerence, was a necessary and morally correct response. The case of Iran is particularly important for Pakistan. The two countries share deep historical, religious and cultural bonds. Iran has also acknowledged Pakistan’s gesture of solidarity and the sentiment is mutual. In a volatile regional environment, such ties must be nurtured through consistent and principled diplomacy. Also it is for the SCO to stand in solidarity with its members during times of crisis—not just in rhetoric, but in unified diplomatic action.
