Saudi Arabia, Qatar, China and Iran have stepped up diplomatic efforts to avert a full-blown conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan after recent cross-border clashes and airstrikes threatened to plunge the neighbors into open warfare. “Saudi Arabia, in coordination with Qatar, is making efforts to reduce tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan,” the source said, requesting anonymity due to the sensitivity of the talks. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan also spoke with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, the Saudi foreign ministry said. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran was ready to assist in promoting understanding and cooperation between the two countries. “The Islamic Republic of Iran stands ready to provide any assistance necessary to facilitate dialogue,” he said in a statement.

Source: Dhaka Tribune February 27, 2026 19:16 UTC