June proved to be one of the most turbulent months in recent global history that tested the resolve, principles, and diplomatic maturity of nations. For Pakistan, it was a month of principled stances, measured responses, and growing recognition of its role as a responsible state in an increasingly polarised world.
The Middle East stood at the edge of a dangerous precipice when Israel launched unprovoked attacks on Iranian targets, triggering a rapid escalation in regional tensions. The situation deteriorated further with the United States’ bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities in Fordow and other locations. The spectre of a full-scale war loomed large.
Pakistan, true to its longstanding commitment to regional stability and Islamic solidarity, strongly condemned the Israeli aggression and asserted Iran’s right to respond in self-defence at the UN Security Council. At the same time, it unequivocally denounced the US strikes, which violated international norms and threatened to further inflame the region. Pakistan stood firmly by Iran’s right to develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes under the framework of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Amid this crisis, Pakistan’s diplomatic and military leadership rose to the occasion. The Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, who was on an official visit to the United States to apprise American officials of Pakistan’s security concerns vis-à-vis India, held a significant meeting with President Donald Trump. Over a lunch that extended for more than two hours, Pakistan’s position on the Middle East crisis and regional stability was communicated in clear terms. President Trump, in a subsequent press briefing, acknowledged Pakistan’s nuanced understanding of Iran and the broader dynamics of the Muslim world. This rare recognition signals the growing weight of Pakistan’s voice in global affairs.
Israel’s belligerence against Iran followed closely on the heels of India’s misadventure, a reckless act of aggression that Pakistan thwarted with resolute strength and strategic restraint. Pakistan’s military response was swift and decisive, sending a clear message that any violation of its sovereignty would not go unanswered. But beyond the battlefield, it was Pakistan’s diplomatic front that shone. A high-level delegation visited key global capitals and the United Nations headquarters in New York, successfully countering Indian propaganda about the Pehalgam incident. The world was reminded that Pakistan is not a sponsor of terrorism, but a victim of it, particularly in Balochistan, where India continues to foment unrest through covert means.
Amid these geopolitical challenges, domestic developments offered hope and pride. Parliament passed the federal budget for FY2025, which outlined continued efforts at macroeconomic stability, social sector investments, and support for Pakistan’s hardworking citizens.
June also brought moments of joy on the sports front. Arshad Nadeem made the nation proud by winning a gold medal at the Asian Athletics Championship held in Gumi, South Korea, cementing his status as one of the world’s top javelin throwers. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s hockey team rekindled hope by defeating France to reach the final of the Nations Cup, giving the country a much-needed morale boost.
