Pakistan never bowed to pressure to establish ties with Israel, says Khamenie

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Monday praised Pakistan’s principled position on the Palestinian issue and called for enhanced bilateral cooperation between the two neighboring countries.

The remarks came during a high-level meeting in Tehran between Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and his delegation, and Iran’s Supreme Leader. The meeting was also attended by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Ayatollah Khamenei emphasised Pakistan’s unique role in the Muslim world and underscored the importance of joint efforts between Iran and Pakistan to curb the Zionist regime’s aggression in Gaza.

“Pakistan’s stance on the Palestinian issue has been very commendable,” Khamenei stated in a message posted on X following the meeting. “Despite continued inducements and pressures for Islamic countries to establish ties with the Zionist regime, Pakistan has remained firm and uninfluenced.”

He expressed disappointment over the normalisation of ties between some Muslim nations and Israel, asserting that through collaboration, Pakistan and Iran can play a pivotal role in correcting the course of the Palestinian struggle.

“Effective, joint efforts by Iran and Pakistan are necessary to stop the Zionist regime’s crimes in Gaza,” he added in the statement on X.

Khamenei also welcomed the apparent de-escalation in tensions between Pakistan and India, expressing hope for a peaceful resolution to longstanding disputes between the two countries.

Speaking on broader global dynamics, Khamenei warned against attempts by warmongering powers to fuel conflict and division worldwide. He stressed that unity and strengthened ties among Muslim nations are vital for ensuring regional security and stability.

Touching upon regional economic cooperation, he called for the reactivation of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) through joint efforts by Iran and Pakistan.

Reflecting on the historical ties between the two countries, Khamenei noted, “Relations between Iran and Pakistan have always been warm and brotherly. Pakistan’s support during Saddam’s imposed war on Iran is a clear example of these fraternal ties.”

He expressed hope that the visit would serve as a foundation for expanding comprehensive cooperation between Iran and Pakistan, particularly in the economic, political, and cultural spheres.

From the Pakistani side, the delegation included Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi, and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif reiterated his government’s commitment to elevating Pak-Iran relations to new heights and transforming them into a strategic partnership.