Envoy Asim Iftikhar calls for coordinated global action amid rising regional tensions and security challenges

New York — April 03, 2026: Pakistan has called for enhanced cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States (LAS) to address escalating crises and promote lasting stability across the Middle East and North Africa.

Speaking at a UN Security Council high-level briefing on cooperation with regional organizations, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, emphasized the need for coordinated and inclusive approaches rooted in the UN Charter and international law.

He noted that in a period marked by increasing geopolitical volatility, effective multilateralism and stronger partnerships between the UN and regional bodies operating under Chapter VIII of the UN Charter are essential for maintaining international peace and security.

“The Security Council bears primary responsibility for global peace and security, but regional organizations play a critical complementary role in conflict prevention, mediation, and stabilization,” the ambassador said.

Ambassador Asim described the League of Arab States as one of the most prominent regional organizations and welcomed its continued efforts in advancing peace, humanitarian cooperation, and development initiatives across the Arab world.

Highlighting Pakistan’s longstanding ties with Arab nations, he said the relationship is built on shared history, faith, and values, and reaffirmed Islamabad’s support for dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes.

He warned that ongoing conflicts, violations of international law, and attacks on critical infrastructure are contributing to instability across the region, underscoring the urgent need for preventive diplomacy and collective security mechanisms.

Addressing the Palestinian issue, Ambassador Asim reiterated Pakistan’s support for a just and lasting solution, calling for a time-bound political process leading to the establishment of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine based on pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

He also pointed to growing regional tensions following recent strikes on Iran, noting that Gulf countries are facing security threats, including disruptions linked to restricted navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

“The immediate priority must be a cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue,” he stressed, referencing UN Security Council Resolution 2788 as a key framework for peaceful dispute resolution.

Ambassador Asim further highlighted the need for stronger UN–LAS collaboration in addressing shared challenges such as terrorism, organized crime, climate change, cyber threats, and disinformation.

He also encouraged broader engagement between the League of Arab States and other regional organizations, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), and ASEAN.

Concluding his remarks, the ambassador said that strengthening partnerships between the UN and the Arab League is not only desirable but essential for ensuring sustainable peace and stability in the region.