A meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) on Monday reaffirmed Iran’s right to self-defence following the airstrikes by the United States (US) on three nuclear facilities: Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz.

 

Months after flattening homes, targeting hospitals, and starving a besieged population in Gaza, Israel has now launched a wide-scale air assault on Iran, hitting nuclear facilities, military sites, and private residences since June 13, killing top commanders, scientists, and civilians.

 

An emergency meeting of the NSC, the highest forum for security deliberations comprising the civil and military top brass, was subsequently convened.

 

Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif chaired the meeting, with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir also attending the important moot, and reviewed the evolving regional situation following the Tel Aviv aggression against Tehran.

 

“The committee strongly condemned Israel’s acts of aggression and expressed regret that these military attacks coincided with a constructive negotiation process between Iran and the US. These reckless actions have escalated tensions, threatening to ignite a wider conflict and diminishing the opportunities for dialogue and diplomacy. The NSC reaffirmed Iran’s right to self-defence as enshrined in the UN Charter,” read the press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on Monday (today).

 

The committee members also extended their condolences to the Iranian government and people over the loss of innocent lives and offered prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.

 

“While reiterating Pakistan’s stated position, the NSC expressed grave concern over the potential for further escalation after the attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan on June 22 which violated the resolutions of the International Atomic Energy Agency, relevant international law and the UN Charter,” the press release noted.

 

The committee members also reaffirmed Pakistan’s ongoing engagement with relevant parties and endorsed the government’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at promoting regional peace and stability.

 

The NSC urged all concerned stakeholders to resolve the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy in accordance with the UN Charter, emphasising the importance of adhering to international human rights and humanitarian law.