Pakistan seeks 'time and space' for diplomatic efforts to end Mideast war

Pakistan sought "time and space" for diplomatic efforts Tuesday to end a spiraling Middle East war.

"We continue to believe that time and space must be allowed for ongoing diplomatic efforts to facilitate a return to dialogue and engagement," said Pakistani Permanent Representative to the UN Asim Iftikhar, after a Security Council vote on a draft resolution on the Strait of Hormuz.

The Council failed to adopt the draft resolution, brought by Bahrain, that wanted a coordinated "defensive" measures to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz after Russia and China exercised their veto powers as permanent members of the top UN body.

The draft resolution received 11. Colombia and Pakistan abstained.

Islamabad is engaged in facilitating indirect talks between the US and Iran.

Reiterating Pakistan’s "continued" and "unwavering" support and "complete solidarity in these challenging times" with Bahrain and other "fraternal" Gulf countries, Iftikhar said Islamabad would continue seeking a "durable" diplomatic solution to the prevailing situation.

Calling for the security of ships and crew members, the swift and safe passage of civilian ships and restoration of normal passage through the Strait of Hormuz, he warned that if the military escalation and disruptions persist, "the suffering will extend far beyond the region, translating into widespread economic hardship."

"At this critical juncture, restraint, diplomacy and dialogue must prevail," he said.

Pakistan, he said, remains committed to continuing to play its constructive role in "promoting dialogue, fostering understanding, and supporting all efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region."