The Permanent Representative to the UN says that diplomacy and dialogue must guide the process and urges sustained negotiations
Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad Photo: APP
Pakistan has reaffirmed its support for resolving the Iran nuclear issue through peaceful means, emphasizing diplomacy and dialogue as the only viable path. Radio Pakistan reported.
Speaking at a UN Security Council briefing on the 1737 Committee established to monitor Iran’s nuclear activities and oversee compliance with sanctions, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative Asim Iftikhar Ahmad said all disputes should be addressed through negotiations in line with the rights, obligations and responsibilities of all parties.
“The JCPOA was a unique instrument, a manifestation of an approach based on dialogue, diplomacy and pragmatism. It was the result of thorough and constructive negotiations, which outlined a roadmap to comprehensively address the concerns of all parties,” he noted in a post on X.
The JCPOA was a unique instrument: a manifestation of an approach based on dialogue, diplomacy and pragmatism. It was the result of meticulous and arduous, although constructive, negotiations. It outlined a roadmap to comprehensively address the parties’ concerns based on… pic.twitter.com/m9Bgs3OdPf
— Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the UN (@PakistanUN_NY) March 12, 2026
The committee was originally created after Iran failed to curb its nuclear enrichment activities, although its reporting role has evolved alongside broader diplomatic developments.
Ahmad stressed that diplomatic engagement remains crucial amid rising regional tensions. “Diplomacy and dialogue must guide the process,” he told Council members, urging conversations held under international law and nonproliferation norms.
He stressed that adherence to IAEA safeguards and negotiated agreements, including the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), is key to reducing mistrust and avoiding escalation.
Read: At UN Security Council, Pakistan walks diplomatic tightrope
Addressing broader instability in the region, Ahmad called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in the Middle East and urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint. He pushed for a permanent ceasefire and resumption of dialogue, warning that an unresolved conflict threatens regional peace and global nonproliferation efforts.
“Returning to the negotiating table is essential,” he said, stressing that a peaceful agreement serves the interests of all parties and prevents further destabilization in the region.
The Middle East remains in a volatile state as a major conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States continues to unfold following coordinated US-Israeli airstrikes against Iranian military and strategic targets that began on February 28.
