Islamabad —  Several Muslim-majority countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran, and Oman have expressed deep concern over the recent escalation of tensions along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border, urging both sides to resolve the matter through dialogue and restraint.

The appeals follow a week of cross-border exchanges triggered by what Islamabad described as “unprovoked firing” by Afghan forces near the frontier, to which Pakistani troops gave what officials called “a proportionate and effective response.”

Saudi Arabia Expresses “Deep Concern”

In a statement issued by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Saudi Arabia said it was following with concern the tensions and clashes taking place in the border areas between the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the State of Afghanistan.

The Kingdom called for restraint and dialogue, saying “the Kingdom calls for restraint, the avoidance of escalation, and the adoption of dialogue and wisdom to contribute to reducing tensions and preserving the security and stability of the region.”

Riyadh reaffirmed that “the Kingdom also affirms its support for all regional and international efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability,” and reiterated its “consistent keenness to ensure security, stability, and prosperity for the brotherly peoples of Pakistan and Afghanistan.”

The Saudi government emphasized that it supports all efforts that help preserve regional peace and hopes that relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan improve so both nations can move toward prosperity.

Iran Calls for Immediate Dialogue

Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also voiced concern over the clashes, saying the situation required “urgent dialogue.”

Spokesperson Esmail Baqaei underscored that “Iran urges dialogue and restraint to prevent escalation of tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan,” emphasizing “the necessity of mutual respect for the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of both countries.”

Baqaei further stated that “Iran stands ready to extend any assistance conducive to reducing tensions between the two neighboring and Muslim countries.”

Qatar Urges Diplomacy and Restraint

Following Pakistan’s strong retaliatory response to Afghan firing, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement expressing concern over the rising border tensions and their potential impact on regional peace and stability.

Doha’s statement read: “The State of Qatar expresses concerns over the escalation and tensions in the border area between the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and Afghanistan, and the potential repercussions for the security and stability of the region.”

It further said that “the Ministry of Foreign Affairs urges both sides to prioritize dialogue, diplomacy and restraint and to work toward containing differences in a manner that helps reduce tension and avoid escalation, in order to achieve regional security and stability.”

Reiterating its diplomatic stance, the statement added that “Qatar supports all regional and international efforts aimed at strengthening international peace and security, and affirms its commitment to ensuring security and prosperity for the brotherly Pakistani and Afghan peoples.”

Oman’s Grand Mufti Appeals for Calm

Oman’s Grand Mufti, Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al-Khalili, also called on Afghanistan to halt provocative actions against Pakistan, urging the Taliban-led administration to act with prudence and seek peaceful solutions.

In a brief message circulated on social media, he said the ongoing tensions “benefit none of the Muslim Ummah” and appealed for both sides to uphold unity and reconciliation.

Regional Mediation Momentum Grows

The collective reaction from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran, and Oman reflects a broader regional push to prevent the Pakistan–Afghanistan border clashes from spiraling into a larger crisis.

Islamabad has maintained that its forces only respond when attacked, while urging Kabul to take action against anti-Pakistan militants operating from Afghan territory.

Diplomatic observers note that the statements from Gulf and regional capitals underline a shared interest in containing instability in the Afghanistan–Pakistan belt, which remains central to regional trade, energy, and security corridors.

“This unified call for dialogue shows that the Muslim world wants de-escalation, not confrontation,” a South Asian security analyst told HTN. “Pakistan’s measured military response and willingness for talks contrast sharply with the provocations that triggered this episode.”

While regional capitals urge moderation, Pakistan’s stance remains clear. Dialogue is welcome, but not at the cost of its security or sovereignty. For true stability, Kabul must match words with action and curb cross-border militancy. The broader Muslim world’s appeals for peace now hinge on Afghanistan’s ability to act responsibly and prevent tensions from undermining regional unity.