Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi spoke with Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar on the phone on Monday to discuss the current Middle East situation and matters of mutual interest.

Araghchi expressed serious concern over ceasefire violations by Israel in Lebanon and over Israeli orders regarding possible attacks on parts of Beirut, a Pakistani Foreign Office spokesperson said.

The Iranian minister appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in regional diplomacy and requested Islamabad to continue efforts to reduce tensions and maintain the ceasefire.

Dar conveyed Pakistan’s deep concern over the situation and stressed the importance of maintaining the ceasefire and securing the existing understanding, saying its continuation is necessary to avoid further tension and crisis in the region.

The two foreign ministers agreed to remain in close contact.