ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar expressed his hope for peace and stability in Iran on Saturday during a telephonic conversation with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, as anti-government protests in the neighbouring country have subsided in recent days, apparently easing tensions with the US and reducing fears of a broader regional military conflict.

According to a post by the Foreign Office on X, Mr Dar and Mr Araghchi spoke on the phone, during which the two diplomats discussed the current situation in Iran and the wider region.

Mr Dar, who is also the deputy prime minister, “expressed hope for peace and stability, and both sides agreed to continue bilateral consultations on matters of mutual interest”, the statement added.

On Thursday, Pakistan had expressed hope at the United Nations Security Council for an early normalisation of the situation in Iran, which saw its largest demonstrations in years, challenging the country’s government.

Ambassador Asim Ahmad described Iran as a “brotherly country”, saying that the people of the two nations share deep-rooted historical, friendly, cultural and religious bonds.

Protests have taken place across Iran in a movement sparked by anger over the rising cost of living, leading to authorities imposing internet restrictions.

US President Donald Trump had repeatedly threatened to intervene in support of protesters. However, monitors reported that the protests have subsided after a crackdown by security forces, while Trump declared that he had decided not to attack the country.

Meanwhile, on the same day, FO spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said that instability in Iran did not suit Pakistan, underscoring that calm and stability in the neighbouring country were directly linked to Islamabad’s own interests.

He also said that Pakistan was engaging with US on the issue of tariffs being imposed on countries conducting trade with Iran.

Published in Dawn, January 18th, 2026