UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar call for restraint as Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions rise

The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have called for restraint and dialogue following renewed clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan, urging both sides to prioritize diplomacy and avoid further escalation.

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern over the cross-border fighting, emphasizing the importance of dialogue, confidence-building measures, and diplomatic solutions to safeguard regional stability.

It reaffirmed support for initiatives aimed at enhancing peace and development in South Asia.

Saudi Arabia has intensified diplomatic engagement between Islamabad and Kabul. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held separate calls with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, reviewing regional developments and discussing efforts to de-escalate tensions while preserving security and stability. The Kingdom has encouraged both sides to pursue dialogue and resolve differences through diplomatic means.

Qatar also stepped up its diplomatic outreach. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al-Khulaifi, Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, spoke separately with Muttaqi and Dar on Friday, discussing measures to reduce tensions and promote peace. During the calls, Al-Khulaifi reiterated Qatar’s support for resolving disputes through peaceful means and strengthening regional and international stability.

The diplomatic interventions come as Pakistan reported killing over 300 Afghan Taliban operatives in a major military operation launched after what it described as unprovoked cross-border attacks. Pakistani forces struck the Afghan capital, Kabul, the city of Kandahar, and other towns, marking the first direct attacks on Afghanistan’s government over allegations it harbors militants plotting against Islamabad.

As the crisis deepened, other international actors also voiced concern. China said it was alarmed by the deteriorating security situation, with foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning saying Beijing was engaging through its own channels and stood ready to help de-escalate tensions. Russia urged both sides to halt hostilities immediately and resolve differences through diplomacy, adding that Moscow would consider mediation if requested, according to state news agency RIA. Iran offered to help facilitate dialogue, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi saying Tehran was prepared to support efforts to improve communication and cooperation between the neighbors.

At the United Nations, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he is closely monitoring the situation and expressed deep concern, his spokesman Stephane Dujarric adding that all parties must respect international law and protect civilians.