PM Shehbaz, Azerbaijan president discuss ongoing hostilities in Gulf, call for immediate de-escalation

The ongoing war, launched by the US and Israel against Iran, has expanded across the Middle East with Tehran targeting US bases and assets in other countries in the region, including Azerbaijan, and Tel Aviv targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon.

The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said on the social media platform X that the premier held a telephone conversation with Aliyev “to exchange greetings on the auspicious occasion of Eidul Fitr”.

“The two leaders also discussed the ongoing hostilities in Iran and the Gulf region,” the statement said.

“The prime minister reiterated [his] strong condemnation of the attacks against Azerbaijan and expressed full solidarity and support with the brotherly people of Azerbaijan in these challenging times.”

It added that both leaders called for an immediate de-escalation, urging “dialogue and diplomacy” to resolve outstanding issues.

Additionally, PM Shehbaz conveyed “heartfelt” Eidul Fitr wishes to Aliyev and the people of Azerbaijan. The sentiments were “warmly reciprocated” by Aliyev for the people of Pakistan, according to the statement.

During the call, they also expressed satisfaction with the positive trajectory of Pakistan-Azerbaijan relations and reaffirmed their mutual resolve and commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties, the PMO added.

In a separate post on X, PM Shehbaz reiterated the same.

“I reiterated my strong condemnation of the attacks against Azerbaijan and reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with our Azerbaijani brothers and sisters,” he said.

“We agreed on the urgent need for de-escalation and resolution of tensions through dialogue and diplomacy, while reaffirming our shared commitment to further strengthening Pakistan-Azerbaijan brotherly ties,” he added.

Two weeks ago, PM Shehbaz had also taken to X to express “serious concern” over the attacks on Azerbaijan.

“Pakistan stands firmly with the leadership and people of Azerbaijan and condemns such deplorable actions that risk further escalation and undermine regional peace and stability,” he said.

“We urge restraint and reiterate the need to de-escalate tensions and pursue dialogue and diplomacy to preserve peace and stability in the region,” he added.

A day earlier, the premier had also held phone calls with Turkiye President President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Jordan’s King Abdullah II, with the situation in the Middle East coming under discussion.