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U.S. Strikes Iran: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Convenes Emergency National Security Meeting

U.S. Strikes Iran: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Convenes Emergency National Security Meeting

In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, the United States launched a series of targeted airstrikes on Iran’s key nuclear facilities, prompting widespread concern across the Middle East and beyond. Among the most immediate responders was Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who called an emergency meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) on Sunday, June 23, 2025, to assess the rapidly evolving situation and its potential implications for Pakistan’s national security and regional stability.

The U.S. Strikes: What Happened?

On June 22, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump authorized military strikes on three critical Iranian nuclear sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. The operation, according to U.S. defense sources, was intended to “severely degrade” Iran’s nuclear capabilities in response to intelligence reports suggesting Tehran was close to weaponizing its nuclear program. President Trump hailed the mission as a “spectacular military success,” though full damage assessments are still ongoing.

The airstrikes, conducted by U.S. stealth bombers and long-range cruise missiles, caught international observers by surprise, despite growing tensions over the past several months. While Washington has framed the action as a pre-emptive defense measure, Iran has denounced it as an unprovoked act of aggression and a violation of international law.

Iran’s Response and Global Repercussions

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed “severe retaliation” against the United States, warning that the attacks have crossed a red line. In an emergency session of Iran’s National Security Council, officials hinted at potential military responses that could include missile strikes on U.S. bases in the region and the closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz — a move that could significantly disrupt global oil supplies.

Internationally, reactions have been mixed. Russia and China condemned the strikes, calling for an immediate UN Security Council meeting. European powers, including France and Germany, expressed grave concern and called for de-escalation. The United Nations has urged restraint on all sides, while NATO has remained largely silent as member states evaluate their positions.

Pakistan’s Swift Response: National Security Committee Meeting

With Iran sharing a 900-kilometer-long border with Pakistan, Islamabad has much at stake in the unfolding crisis. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wasted no time in reacting to the developments. On Sunday morning, he convened an emergency session of the National Security Committee, which included high-ranking officials from the military, intelligence services, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Sources familiar with the meeting said the top agenda items were:

  1. Border Security: Pakistan’s western borders, particularly in Balochistan, are vulnerable to spillover from any conflict involving Iran. The NSC discussed bolstering border patrols and increasing surveillance along key crossing points.

  2. Terrorism Threats: Officials expressed concern that militant groups could exploit instability in Iran to increase activity in the border regions. The NSC is considering a temporary increase in troop deployment to sensitive areas.

  3. Refugee Management: In the event of a full-scale conflict, Pakistan could face an influx of refugees from Iran. Humanitarian and logistical preparedness for such a scenario was reviewed.

  4. Diplomatic Engagement: Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry was tasked with initiating urgent diplomatic dialogue with both Tehran and Washington, urging restraint and emphasizing the importance of dialogue.

Strategic Dilemma for Pakistan

The situation places Pakistan in a diplomatically sensitive position. On one hand, Pakistan maintains close economic and security ties with the United States, especially in light of recent IMF-led financial cooperation. On the other hand, Iran is a neighboring country with which Pakistan shares deep cultural, religious, and economic connections — including a joint gas pipeline project and regional security coordination.

Analysts argue that Pakistan will need to walk a tightrope, balancing strategic neutrality with active mediation. Islamabad may find a unique opportunity to act as a regional mediator, potentially working alongside Turkey, Qatar, and China to de-escalate tensions.

Domestic Implications

Domestically, the crisis has triggered debate among political circles, civil society, and media outlets. While some political leaders have demanded a clear stance in favor of Iran, others are urging caution, warning that aligning too closely with either side could have severe economic and security consequences.

Public concern is also rising, particularly in Balochistan, where residents are already weary of sporadic unrest and underdevelopment. Any military build-up in the region could exacerbate existing grievances.

Conclusion

The U.S. airstrikes on Iran mark a new chapter of volatility in the Middle East, one that could have far-reaching consequences for global security. For Pakistan, the crisis underscores the urgency of strategic foresight, diplomatic agility, and regional cooperation. As the world watches closely, Islamabad must not only safeguard its borders but also explore every avenue to prevent the descent into a wider regional war.

Only time will tell whether diplomacy can prevail — but Pakistan’s early engagement and preparedness may prove crucial in shaping what comes next.

Reference:  ایران پر امریکی حملہ، وزیر اعظم شہباز شریف نے قومی سلامتی کمیٹی کا ہنگامی اجلاس طلب کرلیا

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