Why it matters:
The meeting signals Tehran’s push for regional alignment against the Zionist regime, and a call to Muslim nations not to normalize ties with Israel. It also reflects a renewed push to expand Iran-Pakistan cooperation at a time of shifting geopolitical dynamics.
The big picture:
Iran's Leader's remarks frame Iran and Pakistan as potential pillars of a more unified Muslim response, not just to the Palestinian plight, but to broader strategic realignments in the region.
What Leader's saying:
Ayatollah Khamenei said Pakistan has never succumbed to the pressures of normalizing ties with Israel.
He warned that “some Islamic governments stand beside the Zionist regime."
On bilateral ties, Ayatollah Khamenei said Iran-Pakistan relations have always been “warm and fraternal” but are currently “below expectations.”
He called for “a comprehensive expansion of ties” across political, economic, and cultural fronts, and emphasized joint efforts to strengthen the ECO.
“The only means of securing safety and security for the Islamic Ummah is unity among Muslim nations.”
What the Pakistani PM's saying:
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his deep pleasure at meeting with the Leader of the Islamic Revolution and conveyed appreciation for the Islamic Republic of Iran’s positive role in helping de-escalate the recent crisis between Pakistan and India.
Sharif addressed the issue of Gaza: “Regrettably, the international community has taken no effective steps to end the ongoing catastrophe in Gaza.”
He expressed hope that his fruitful and constructive discussions in Tehran would pave the way for a further strengthening of bilateral relations between the two nations.
Go deeper:
Leader Receives Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif
Hossein Vaez
