Pakistan treads carefully as US tightens Iran sanctions

Islamabad: Pakistan maintained a measured stance on the US economic pressure campaign against Iran, emphasizing its commitment to international law and bilateral trade agreements with Tehran. Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated that Pakistan's trade with Iran is in line with its legal obligations. This measured response came in the wake of the US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announcing 'Operation Economic Outcast,' an intensified sanctions program targeting sectors like shipping, aviation, technology, gold, and digital assets to compel Iran to negotiate after a period of military confrontation.

Andrabi stressed that assurances alone were insufficient and that talks with Kabul should hinge on verifiable action against terror groups. However, Pakistan refrained from directly confronting the US measures, instead anchoring its position in international law and existing agreements with Iran. The Foreign Office also left open the possibility of addressing economic issues through the ongoing mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran.

Andrabi highlighted the delicate balance Pakistan faces, as it is a key economic partner for Pakistan while Iran remains a neighboring country with strong ties to a segment of its population. He echoed the positions of China and Qatar, who both emphasized that their trade with Iran complied with international law and called for dialogue and a regional solution.

Andrabi also provided updates on the Strait of Hormuz, expressing hope that recent diplomatic activity could lead to its reopening. He noted that during Field Marshal Asim Munir's visit to Tehran, renewed efforts were made to resolve the issue. However, he cautioned that the final decision rested with Washington and Tehran. The Foreign Office rejected reports suggesting Munir's visit was at the US president's behest, clarifying that it was part of Pakistan's ongoing mediation role.

Regarding Afghanistan, Andrabi stressed that any bilateral mechanism with Kabul must produce tangible and verifiable results against groups operating from Afghan soil. He reiterated Pakistan's concerns about Afghan territory being used for attacks against Pakistan and its commitment to international agreements, including the Doha framework.