ISLAMABAD, Sunday, March 29, 2026 (WNP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Sunday held a telephonic conversation with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, focusing on the evolving regional situation and the need for urgent de-escalation.

During the call, Dar stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path toward lasting peace, underscoring the importance of ending all attacks and hostilities amid rising tensions.

He reaffirmed that Pakistan remains committed to supporting all efforts aimed at restoring regional peace and stability.

In a related development, the deputy prime minister welcomed a decision by Iran to allow 20 additional Pakistani-flagged ships to transit through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, with two vessels scheduled to pass daily.

Describing the move as a “constructive gesture,” Dar said it reflects a positive step toward confidence-building and regional stability.

“This is a welcome development and a harbinger of peace that will strengthen collective efforts for stability in the region,” he said.

He emphasized that such measures, along with sustained diplomatic engagement, are essential to easing tensions and fostering cooperation among regional stakeholders.

The development comes at a time of heightened uncertainty in the Gulf region, where maritime security and energy routes remain critical to global economic stability.