Istanbul / Anadolu

Emir of Qatar Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed on Friday the need to continue efforts to reduce tensions between Washington and Tehran through peaceful means.

The Qatari Emiri Diwan said in a statement that Emir Tamim received a phone call from the Pakistani prime minister, during which they reviewed cooperation relations between the two countries and prospects for enhancing them, along with discussing the latest regional and international developments and efforts to support security and peace in the region.

The statement quoted the Pakistani prime minister as affirming his country's 'full support and solidarity with the State of Qatar in light of the current regional developments.'

Sharif stressed 'the importance of restraint, dialogue, and diplomacy to preserve the peace gains achieved during the past period,' according to the Qatari statement.

He expressed 'his appreciation for the role of the State of Qatar and its ongoing efforts in supporting peace endeavors.'

The Pakistani prime minister affirmed his country's aspiration to 'continue coordination and joint work to enhance peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.'

The two sides reviewed, according to the statement, 'the current developments in the region, especially related to diplomatic efforts and talks between the United States of America and Iran.'

They stressed 'the need to continue efforts aimed at reducing tension and resolving differences through peaceful means.'

The two sides also affirmed, according to the statement, 'their keenness to continue coordination and cooperation to support regional security, maintain the safety of navigation and sea lanes, and contribute to creating conditions for achieving lasting and sustainable peace in the region.'

Earlier on Friday, US President Donald Trump claimed that Iran had asked the United States to resume negotiations, and that his country agreed, but stressed that the ceasefire had ended.

This comes amid escalating tensions between the two sides, as the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Thursday morning the execution of new strikes targeting about 90 Iranian military sites, including air defense systems, missile and drone storage sites, naval capabilities, and logistical infrastructure on the Iranian coast.

In response, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard announced targeting US military bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, warning of expanding the scope of its attacks if the US strikes continue.

The Gulf region has witnessed escalating tensions since the start of the US-Israeli war on Iran on February 28 last.

Following the signing of a memorandum of understanding by Washington and Tehran on June 18 last, negotiations between them continue with the mediation of Qatar and Pakistan to reach a final agreement.