• Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif praised Trump's leadership in achieving a ceasefire between Israel and Iran.
• US and Pakistan emphasized the importance of preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
• Ongoing discussions between US officials and Pakistan highlight Islamabad’s potential role in regional peace.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded US President Donald Trump for his “decisive leadership” in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, which ended a twelve-day conflict. In a call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Sharif affirmed Pakistan's commitment to fostering peace in the Middle East, as stated by his office. The prime minister expressed gratitude for the US's role in facilitating the ceasefire, following a series of damaging attacks from both nations earlier this month, which resulted in substantial casualties on both sides, according to aa.

During the Thursday call, Secretary Rubio underscored the need for ongoing cooperation to establish a “durable peace” between Israel and Iran. The discussion followed a visit by Trump with Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, highlighting Islamabad's critical understanding of regional dynamics. Rubio's assurances that Iran "can never develop or acquire a nuclear weapon" reiterate the US’s commitment to non-proliferation, reflecting shared strategic priorities, according to dawn and reuters.

Sharif's dialogue with Rubio is part of a broader engagement reflecting increased US-Pakistani diplomatic interactions. Amid calls for regional stability and effective communication regarding the Israel-Iran situation, both leaders recognized Pakistan's potential role as a stabilizing force. Observers suggest that Islamabad’s involvement could enhance perceptions of it as a constructive actor in the Middle Eastern arena, as showcased in recent statements and actions by US officials, according to trtglobal and reuters.