PTI urges ‘domestic ceasefire’ amid praise for Pakistan’s mediation efforts

RAWALPINDI: Gohar Ali Khan on Tuesday urged the government to pursue a “domestic ceasefire” with the opposition, while appreciating Pakistan’s role in mediating tensions between the United States and Iran.

Speaking to journalists at Dahgal Naka on Adiala Road, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chairman questioned the government’s approach, asking how it could promote peace internationally while remaining at odds internally.

He said that if Pakistan is brokering ceasefires globally, similar efforts should be made at home, stressing that internal stability is crucial for achieving broader global stability.

Islamabad recently emerged as a key diplomatic venue where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif facilitated a two-week ceasefire between Washington and Tehran on April 8. Delegations from both sides later held over 20 hours of negotiations in the federal capital, although no final agreement was reached.

Gohar said Pakistan is playing an important role in promoting global peace and noted that his party appreciates all efforts made toward easing tensions between the two countries.

He added that PTI supports any initiative that contributes to the country’s progress and stability, saying the party stands with the nation’s interests.

Responding to a question about potential talks with the ruling alliance, Gohar clarified that PTI is currently not engaged in any negotiations. He said the authority to initiate dialogue rests with Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Mahmood Khan Achakzai, expressing hope that talks could begin within the next one and a half months.

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The PTI leader also highlighted that his party had recently cancelled a planned public gathering in Rawalpindi in view of the sensitive diplomatic situation.

Last week, PTI called off its April 9 public meeting at Liaquat Bagh amid the arrival of US and Iranian delegations for peace negotiations.

Emphasising the broader impact of the Middle East conflict, Gohar said the ongoing tensions are affecting the global economy, including Pakistan, and reiterated the need for peace at both international and domestic levels.