Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed profound sorrow, on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan, over the martyrdom of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
In a statement, the prime minister said that the government and people of Pakistan stand with the people of Iran in this hour of grief. He offered condolences on behalf of the state and the nation over the martyrdom of the Iranian Supreme Leader.
He said Pakistan also registers its concern over violations of international law, adding that, under established norms, heads of state cannot be targeted.
The prime minister said that prayers are offered for the departed soul of Ayatollah Syed Ali Khamenei, and that Almighty Allah grant the Iranian people fortitude to bear this immense loss.
Earlier, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has termed the recent attack on Iran as deeply regrettable and a cause of heartfelt sorrow. He said Pakistan extended every possible diplomatic and moral support to Iran and condemned the attack at the United Nations.
He appealed to religious parties and the public in Pakistan to exercise restraint.
The defence minister said it is the responsibility of all to keep emotions in check, adding that national unity and stability are Pakistan’s real strength at this time. He urged that protests remain peaceful and that no disorder or damage be allowed within the country.
