Pakistan’s Foreign Office has firmly denied reports suggesting that the country plans to supply Iran with Shaheen-III medium-range ballistic missiles. In a press briefing on Friday.
Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch dismissed the claims as “baseless,” responding to an August 6 report by the Jerusalem Post, which alleged that Pakistan might support Iran with arms if tensions between Iran and Israel escalate.
“Such reports are patently false. Before paying any attention to such reports, it is important to reflect on the source behind such baseless reports and the malicious agenda behind them,” Baloch stated.
She emphasized the importance of responsible journalism, especially during a critical time in the Middle East, urging all parties, including the media, to avoid spreading fake news. Baloch assured that Pakistan is committed to supporting all efforts to prevent further conflict in the region, although she did not comment on any recent communications with Washington on the matter.
Pakistan, which does not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel, has been improving ties with neighboring Iran, highlighted by recent high-level exchanges and agreements to boost trade and regional cooperation.
Additionally, Baloch mentioned that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had recently spoken with Iran’s foreign minister. Dar also participated in an emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Saudi Arabia, where he condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and called for a ceasefire and greater access to humanitarian aid. He emphasized the need to prevent further escalation of violence in the region.
