WANA (Jun 22) – Iran’s Acting Minister of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics, in a telephone conversation with Pakistan’s Defense Minister, emphasized that despite recent agreements, Iran’s armed forces do not trust unreliable adversaries and would respond forcefully to any breach of commitments.

 

Speaking with Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Brigadier General Seyed Majid Ibn al-Reza expressed condolences over the deaths of several Pakistani military officers and soldiers in a helicopter crash and praised the Pakistani government and armed forces for their supportive stance toward the Islamic Republic of Iran.

 

He referred to Pakistan’s positions in international forums, particularly at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization defense ministers’ meeting, and thanked Islamabad for condemning aggression against Iran. He stated that the Iranian government and people would never forget the support and solidarity shown by friendly nations during difficult times.

 

The acting defense minister also expressed appreciation for the political and moral support provided by Pakistan’s government, people, and senior military officials regarding recent developments, describing Pakistan as a friendly and brotherly country with an important role in regional affairs.

 

Addressing recent negotiations and agreements, Ibn al-Reza stated that Iran’s armed forces, despite signing the memorandum of understanding, have never placed trust in an unreliable adversary and warned that any violation of the agreement would be met with a severe and regrettable response.

 

He also referred to developments in the region and the actions of Israel in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, describing Israel as a key source of instability and crisis in the region. He stressed the importance of unity among Islamic countries to prevent further tensions and maintain regional stability.

 

In another part of his remarks, the acting defense minister recalled Iran’s proposal for establishing a “Regional Security Belt for the Islamic World,” involving countries such as Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, and other Islamic nations. He announced Iran’s readiness to engage in consultations with regional states on the initiative.

 

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Defense Minister praised the resilience of the Iranian people and armed forces, saying that Iran’s resistance against aggression would be remembered as a historic example of determination and perseverance.

 

Khawaja Muhammad Asif also described relations between Tehran and Islamabad as brotherly and welcomed Iran’s proposal for regional security cooperation. He expressed hope that, following greater regional stability, a new chapter of bilateral cooperation would emerge to strengthen lasting peace and security in the region.