Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein and his Pakistani counterpart discuss the repercussions of regional tensions and affirm support for diplomatic efforts to contain escalation

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq, H.E. Mr. Fuad Hussein, held a telephone call on Monday, 23 March 2026, with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Ishaq Dar, to discuss developments related to the ongoing regional tensions and their implications for regional security and stability.

The two sides began the call by exchanging greetings on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, expressing their wishes for greater security and stability for the two friendly peoples.

The discussion addressed the evolving war in the region and the accelerating escalation, particularly threats regarding the possible use of force to open a passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and the serious consequences this could entail for regional and international security.

H.E. Mr. Fuad Hussein was briefed by his counterpart on the outcomes of the Riyadh meeting and the positions of participating states regarding the crisis, within the framework of strengthening coordination and exchanging views on ways to contain the escalation.

The two sides also discussed international and regional efforts aimed at pushing toward a ceasefire, stressing the importance of intensifying diplomatic engagement to prevent further expansion of the conflict.

They further highlighted the economic impact of the war on a number of countries, including Iraq and Pakistan, and the challenges this poses to economic stability.

In a related context, the two ministers discussed the postponement of the Ministerial Meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, which had been scheduled to take place in Baghdad next month, due to the current circumstances.

At the conclusion of the call, both sides emphasized the importance of maintaining communication and coordination in support of de-escalation efforts and the promotion of regional stability.