In a telephone conversation on Monday, Pezeshkian and Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif discussed bilateral relations, regional developments, and the consequences of the illegal war imposed by the US and the Zionist regime on Iran.

In detailing the dimensions of the aggression and illegal attacks and crimes committed by the US and the Zionist regime, Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran was not the initiator of the war, stating that the aggressive enemy, without any reason, logic, or legal basis, committed military aggression against Iran during nuclear negotiations, targeting Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, high-ranking military commanders, and defenseless citizens, including innocent students, as well as public facilities in the country.

Thus, defending the country's territory is Iran’s legitimate and natural right, the president emphasized.

Pezeshkian also praised the good and fraternal relations with Pakistan, adding that Iran has always been serious about preserving stability and security and countering foreign interference in regional affairs, and continues to seek the expansion and strengthening of regional cooperation with neighboring countries.

The president further emphasized that the request of the Islamic Republic of Iran from the countries in the region is very clear and explicit. He called on the Islamic countries not to allow the use of their territory and facilities for attacks on Iran by the US and the Zionist regime.

Pezeshkian also noted that if the regional states cannot stop the continuation of war and aggression, they should not create the grounds for ongoing illegal aggressions against Iran, as this will lead to the escalation of war and insecurity in the region.

He then highlighted the repercussions of the US-Israeli military aggression on regional security and the safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that the insecurity imposed on the Strait of Hormuz is a direct result of this military aggression.

At the same time, Pezeshkian noted that Iran has taken necessary measures to ensure security and safety for navigation and will cooperate for the safe passage of vessels that do not belong to or are not related to the aggressors and participants in the aggression.

For his part, Prime Minister Sharif congratulated Iran on Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz holidays, expressing profound regret regarding the aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran and the martyrdom and injury of thousands of innocent Iranian citizens and senior officials.

He reiterated the deep condolences and sympathy of the Pakistani government and people to Iran and thanked the Iranian government for allowing the safe passage of Pakistani vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

Shehbaz Sharif also called for collective efforts by the countries in the region, especially Muslim nations, to reduce tensions and restore lasting peace and stability in the region.

He emphasized the legitimate and natural right of the Islamic Republic of Iran to defend itself and added that Pakistan has always stood by the government and people of Iran and will continue to do so.