On January 21, 2026 the Centre for Afghanistan Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) convened a roundtable to assess the evolving situation in Iran. Former diplomats, leading academics and prominent practitioners took part in detailed discussions about current developments in Iran, their regional consequences, and the options available to Pakistan.
Participants emphasised that the Iran situation remains fluid and complex and requires careful, continuous assessment. There was broad agreement that Pakistan should continue to stress respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, adopt restraint, and prioritise dialogue and de-escalation to help preserve regional stability.
Speakers underlined the need for Pakistan to balance diplomatic engagement with measures to safeguard national security and foreign policy interests. The discussion explored how measured responses and sustained regional engagement can protect Pakistan’s priorities while contributing to a calmer neighbourhood as the Iran situation unfolds.
The meeting was held under the Chatham House Rule, enabling candid exchanges that helped shape a pragmatic and cautious policy outlook for Islamabad. Participants urged policymakers to remain adaptive and to pursue avenues for constructive dialogue with regional partners.
CAMEA and ISSI pledged to continue monitoring developments and to provide analysis aimed at informing Pakistan’s approach as the Iran situation develops further.
