Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, expressing deep concern over what he described as a serious violation of international law and diplomatic norms. The premier warned that targeting national leadership threatens global peace and further destabilizes an already volatile region.
In a message posted on social media platform X, PM Shehbaz stated that the government and people of Pakistan stand firmly with the people of Iran during this moment of grief. He extended heartfelt condolences on the martyrdom of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, emphasizing that such acts undermine international conventions and principles that protect world leaders from political violence.
“The government and the people of Pakistan join the people of Iran in their hour of grief and sorrow and extend the most sincere condolences on the martyrdom of His Eminence Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei,” the prime minister wrote.
He further highlighted that targeting heads of state or government is strictly prohibited under long-standing international conventions. “Pakistan expresses grave concern over the violation of international norms. It is an age-old convention that leaders of nations must never be targeted. Such actions seriously threaten global stability and peace,” he added.
The prime minister also offered prayers for the departed leader and for strength and patience for the Iranian nation to endure what he termed an “irreparable loss.” His remarks reflect Pakistan’s consistent stance on respecting sovereignty, diplomacy, and peaceful conflict resolution.
President Zardari Expresses Solidarity
Separately, President Asif Ali Zardari also conveyed deep sorrow over the tragic incident. In an official statement issued by the President’s Secretariat, he said Pakistan stands shoulder to shoulder with Iran during this difficult time.
“The president expressed profound grief over the martyrdom of the Iranian supreme leader and other senior members of Iran’s leadership. He said that Pakistan shares in the sorrow of the Iranian nation and prays for the departed souls,” the statement read.
President Zardari noted that the loss of such a towering figure would resonate deeply across the Muslim world and beyond, given Ayatollah Khamenei’s prominent role in regional and global affairs.
PM Shehbaz Holds Key Talks with Jordan’s King
In light of escalating tensions in the Middle East, PM Shehbaz also held a crucial telephone conversation with King Abdullah II of Jordan to discuss the rapidly evolving regional situation.
According to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office, both leaders exchanged views on the serious developments following recent Israeli strikes on Iran and the subsequent retaliatory actions that impacted Jordan and neighboring countries.
“The prime minister emphasized Pakistan’s deep concern over the escalating crisis and underscored the urgent need for restraint, dialogue, and de-escalation to preserve peace and stability across the region,” the statement said.
PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with Jordan and other brotherly nations facing growing security challenges. He reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to support all diplomatic initiatives aimed at restoring calm and preventing further conflict.
Both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination on regional developments and to continue diplomatic engagement to promote stability.
Later, PM Shehbaz also shared details of the conversation on X, stating: “We emphasized the urgent need for restraint, dialogue, and de-escalation to preserve peace and stability.”
Rising Regional Tensions
The assassination of Iran’s supreme leader has dramatically intensified tensions in the Middle East, sparking fears of wider conflict. Analysts warn that such high-profile targeted killings could trigger unpredictable consequences, including broader military escalations and diplomatic breakdowns.
Pakistan has consistently advocated for peaceful conflict resolution, respect for sovereignty, and adherence to international law. Islamabad’s response reflects its broader foreign policy approach aimed at promoting stability, diplomacy, and cooperation in the region.
Experts believe Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement with regional leaders, including Jordan, highlights Islamabad’s desire to play a constructive role in preventing further escalation and supporting peace efforts.
Global Reaction and Diplomatic Concerns
World leaders and international organizations have expressed alarm over the assassination, calling for restraint and urgent diplomatic engagement. The killing of a sitting supreme leader is widely regarded as an unprecedented breach of international norms, raising serious concerns about the future of global security frameworks.
Pakistan’s strong condemnation aligns with growing international calls for accountability, de-escalation, and renewed diplomatic dialogue to avert a wider crisis.
