'Give peace a little more chance': PM Shehbaz calls for restraint after Israel, Iran exchange attacks

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday urged all sides in the ongoing Middle East conflict to “exercise restraint and give peace a little more chance” after a new round of hostilities between Iran and Israel.

“The recent surge in violence in the Middle East is a stark reminder of the dangers associated with a tenuous ceasefire and the unbearable consequences it may lead to,” PM Shehbaz said on X.

He added: “As we work earnestly and painstakingly, together with our brothers and partners, to find a peaceful diplomatic solution to the conflict, and especially when the final objective is just about to be achieved, we sincerely urge all sides to exercise restraint and give peace a little more chance.

“Let us continue to remain on the path of peace and diplomacy which have bright prospects of success instead of violence and destruction!”

PM Shehbaz’s comes after Israel and Iran exchanged attacks for the first time since the shaky ceasefire in the Middle East war took effect on April 8, despite US President Donald Trump calling for restraint.

The flare-up saw Israel striking Iran after Tehran targeted it in vengeance for an airstrike on Beirut’s southern suburbs on Saturday. Israel struck the Lebanese capital despite the US announcement of a truce plan last week.

Ceasefire agreements for Lebanon have failed to secure peace due to Israel’s escalated operations, including strikes, multiple forced displacement orders and the capture of the historic Beaufort Castle.