Pezeshkian Urges New Muslim Security Bloc in Pakistan as Iran Defends Missile Program in US MoU
Updated
Updated · DAWN.com · Jun 24
Pezeshkian Urges New Muslim Security Bloc in Pakistan as Iran Defends Missile Program in US MoU
3 articles · Updated · DAWN.com · Jun 24
Summary
Masoud Pezeshkian used a one-day visit to Islamabad to call for a “united front” of Muslim nations and a new regional security structure, saying peace in West Asia and the Persian Gulf depends on intra-regional cooperation.
Pakistan’s leaders framed the visit as a follow-up to the June 18 Islamabad MoU between the US and Iran, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif crediting Pakistani mediation and announcing a trip to Tehran next week.
Shehbaz and Pezeshkian both said Iran’s ballistic missile program was never part of the accord, with the Iranian president insisting Tehran would “never compromise” on missile capabilities.
The two sides also pushed to deepen bilateral ties in trade, energy, border security and regional connectivity, while Pezeshkian praised Pakistan’s peace efforts and “age-old trust” between the neighbors.
The visit came days after direct US-Iran talks in Switzerland launched 60-day technical negotiations under a 14-point framework to end the war and keep the Strait of Hormuz open.
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Overview
On June 24, 2026, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian visited Islamabad, where he met with top Pakistani leaders to promote unity among Muslim nations and firmly assert Iran’s right to its missile program. Pezeshkian rejected any negotiations over Iran’s ballistic missiles, emphasizing their importance for national defense, a stance shaped by past vulnerabilities during the Iran-Iraq war. This visit highlighted Iran’s push for a strong Muslim security bloc and showcased Pakistan’s role as a key regional partner. The diplomatic efforts reflect shifting alliances and a growing desire for regional self-reliance in security matters.