Iran, Saudi Arabia, Qatar Urge Restraint as Pakistan‑Afghan Border Clashes Escalate

ISLAMABAD — Tensions along the Pakistan‑Afghanistan border intensified as Pakistan mounted a forceful retaliation to what officials called unprovoked Afghan attacks. In response to the growing conflict, regional powers Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have stepped in, calling for calm, diplomacy, and an end to escalation.

Authorities in Islamabad say the Afghan Taliban initiated kinetic attacks across the border, prompting Pakistan’s military to retaliate with proportional force. As clashes intensified, the international spotlight turned to Gulf and regional players to mediate and de‑escalate.

Read more: Iranian Ambassador Condemns Terrorism, Mourns Martyrs of Pakistan Security Forces

Saudi Arabia, expressing concern over the violence, urged both countries to act with care and restraint, warning that any hasty measures might spiral into a broader conflict. The Saudi Foreign Ministry emphasized the need for dialogue to preserve peace across the region, and reaffirmed Riyadh’s commitment to regional security and stability.

Qatar echoed the call, urging the immediate reopening of communication channels between Islamabad and Kabul. Doha emphasized that diplomacy, not force, should guide the resolution of tensions. The Qatari government also stressed that cooperation and mutual respect are essential to avoid further deterioration of border relations.

As international pressure mounts, many hope the diplomacy will prevail over confrontation. The coming hours may prove crucial: either the descent into deeper conflict or a return to cautious engagement and negotiation.