Islamabad, May 18, 2025 — Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed deep gratitude to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for Iran’s pivotal role in mediating the recent ceasefire between Pakistan and India. In a telephone conversation on Saturday, Sharif lauded Iran’s “compassionate and brotherly efforts” in de-escalating tensions and facilitating dialogue between the two nuclear-armed neighbors .Reuters+3Iran Front Page+3The Express Tribune+3
The ceasefire follows a period of heightened hostilities triggered by a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based militants, a claim Islamabad has denied. The ensuing military exchanges raised fears of a broader conflict, prompting international calls for restraint and diplomacy .The Washington Post+1Reuters+1The Guardian
Iran’s diplomatic engagement included dispatching Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to Islamabad and New Delhi, advocating for peaceful resolution and offering Tehran’s good offices to mediate the crisis . During his visit, Araghchi emphasized Iran’s commitment to regional stability and its willingness to facilitate dialogue between the two countries .The Express Tribune+2@EconomicTimes+2New Arab+2
In his conversation with President Pezeshkian, Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the ceasefire agreement and emphasized the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue. He also highlighted concerns over India’s alleged unilateral actions regarding the Indus Waters Treaty, describing them as a “red line” for Pakistan due to the treaty’s significance for the country’s water security .Arab News+2The Express Tribune+2Iran Front Page+2
President Pezeshkian welcomed the ceasefire as a positive development and reaffirmed Iran’s dedication to promoting peace and stability in South Asia. He extended an invitation to Prime Minister Sharif for an official visit to Tehran, which Sharif accepted, signaling a strengthening of bilateral ties .The Express Tribune
The Pakistani military also acknowledged Iran’s role in de-escalating the crisis. Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry praised Iran’s peace efforts and cautioned against external forces attempting to sow discord between Islamabad and Tehran .The Washington Post+2Arab News+2New Arab+2The Express Tribune+2Dawn+2The Frontier Post+2
The ceasefire, agreed upon by the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan on May 12, has been welcomed by various stakeholders. The Jammu & Kashmir Students Association described it as a crucial move toward peace, offering relief to border communities affected by the conflict .Al Jazeera+3@EconomicTimes+3The Times of India+3The Times of India
While the ceasefire brings a temporary halt to hostilities, underlying issues, particularly the Kashmir dispute, remain unresolved. Observers note that sustained dialogue and confidence-building measures are essential to ensure lasting peace in the region.