In a strongly worded statement issued on July 8, 2026, Pakistan expressed profound concern over the rising tensions between Iran and the United States, warning that renewed conflict would serve no one's interests. The statement, released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from any actions that could further destabilize an already fragile region. Pakistan emphasized that there is no alternative to continued engagement, dialogue, and diplomacy to achieve the shared goal of peace. The country urged all sides to uphold their commitments under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which Pakistan described as an enduring foundation for mutual respect, understanding, and shared prosperity. Pakistan reiterated its readiness to play a constructive role in de-escalating the situation. In my opinion, this statement reflects Pakistan's strategic balancing act: it seeks to maintain good relations with both Iran and the US while positioning itself as a responsible regional mediator. However, the effectiveness of such calls hinges on whether the major powers are willing to listen. Without concrete follow-up actions, these diplomatic appeals risk becoming hollow rhetoric. The Islamabad MoU remains a potentially viable framework, but its success depends on genuine political will from all signatories.

The current military approach in Balochistan is being heavily criticized as ineffective against a guerrilla insurgency. Conventional tactics are failing to neutralize the enemy, which operates through proxies and decentralized networks. A firm stance is urgently needed: striking through proxies must be prioritized, and the leadership of those supporting the proxies should no longer be off-limits. Additionally, a more structured military network is required in 'B category' areas of Balochistan, where insurgent activity is high. The lack of adequate airpower further hampers operations, leaving ground forces vulnerable. In my opinion, the reluctance to target proxy supporters' leadership reflects a strategic weakness—it allows the insurgency to regenerate. Without a comprehensive shift toward unconventional warfare, including targeted strikes and enhanced intelligence-driven operations, the conflict will persist. The military must adapt or risk prolonged instability in the region.