WANA (Apr 16) – The President of Iran, in a meeting with the Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan, praised Islamabad’s role in de-escalation efforts and emphasized Tehran’s commitment to peace, stability, and strengthening brotherly relations in the region. He also highlighted that unity among Islamic countries can prevent Israel from achieving its objectives.

 

According to the Presidential Office, President Masoud Pezeshkian met with General Asim Munir on Thursday evening (April 16, 2026), expressing appreciation for his efforts, as well as those of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in mediating and facilitating a ceasefire. He also commended Pakistan’s hosting of the Iranian delegation during the Islamabad talks.

 

The President reiterated Iran’s principled approach toward the Islamic world, stating that Tehran considers all Muslim nations as brothers, a perspective rooted in religious teachings. At the same time, he described recent actions targeting U.S. military bases in the region as defensive measures taken in response to imposed conditions.

 

Pezeshkian noted that many regional conflicts and instabilities stem from Israel’s attempts to create divisions among Islamic countries. “The Islamic Ummah must act with unity and cooperation to prevent Israel from exploiting internal divisions,” he said, adding that greater unity would eliminate the possibility of pushing the region toward further conflict.

 

He also referred to recent attacks by the United States and Israel, describing them as lacking legal justification and resulting in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure such as schools and hospitals. The President stressed that since taking office, his administration has pursued a policy of strengthening friendly relations domestically and regionally, despite facing hostile actions.

 

Emphasizing that Iran does not seek instability, he stated that Tehran aims to expand brotherly ties with neighboring countries while firmly pursuing its rights within the framework of international law.

Pakistan Army Chief Meets Iranian President. Social media /WANA News Agency

Pakistan Army Chief Meets Iranian President. Social media /WANA News Agency

Pezeshkian further argued that regional security should be ensured by regional countries themselves, noting that just as Europe manages its security through collective mechanisms, Islamic countries can rely on shared cultural and religious ties to address their own challenges.

 

He also pointed to the Iranian public’s lack of trust in the United States, attributing it to repeated breaches of commitments, attacks during negotiations, and assassinations of officials. He affirmed that Iran, while engaging with friendly nations such as Pakistan, will firmly safeguard its national interests.

 

For his part, General Asim Munir expressed satisfaction with the meeting and thanked Iran for its hospitality. He also conveyed condolences from the Pakistani Prime Minister and people over the deaths of Iranian officials and civilians.

 

Addressing regional developments, Munir stated, “Although this war will end, the region will not return to its previous state,” stressing the need for collective efforts toward reconstruction, stability, and peace. He also highlighted the support of countries such as China, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey for ongoing diplomatic efforts, emphasizing the importance of sustaining such cooperation.

 

He added that relations between countries become more significant during times of crisis, describing diplomatic exchanges as a sign of sincerity in bilateral ties. He noted that the deep historical, cultural, and religious commonalities between Iran and Pakistan provide a strong foundation for expanded cooperation.

 

Concluding his remarks, Munir expressed optimism about the diplomatic process, stating, “With continued efforts, a ceasefire agreement can be reached soon,” and stressed that the war would bring nothing but destruction and losses for all parties involved.