01.03.2026 18:12
An unexpected statement came from Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who made headlines with his speech nominating U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. Sharif stated that the killing of Iran's religious leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would be a "violation" of international law.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who made international headlines with his speech nominating US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, made a striking statement regarding the killing of Iran's religious leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Sharif described Khamenei's killing as a clear violation of international law.
"AN ILLEGAL PRACTICE"
In a press conference he held, Sharif stated, "International law and the legitimate leadership structures of sovereign states should not be disrupted by such arbitrary and armed interventions. The killing of Khamenei is contrary to international law." Emphasizing that Pakistan is in favor of regional stability and peace, Sharif called for diplomacy and dialogue instead of military operations that escalate tensions.
REGIONAL TENSION IS RISING
The death of Khamenei, following attacks by the US and Israel on Iran, has significantly increased the risk of war in the Middle East. While Iran continues its retaliatory attacks, US and Israeli bases have been targeted in return. The use of hypersonic missiles in the region, the activation of air defense systems, and evacuation processes for civilians have come to the forefront.
Following these developments, calls for a ceasefire have risen through diplomatic channels. Sharif's statement stands out as a strong emphasis on international law from an official state leader during a period of escalating tensions.
NOMINATION OF TRUMP FOR 'PEACE PRIZE'
It is recalled that Shehbaz Sharif surprised many by announcing last month that he would nominate Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. It was noted that this step was taken in recognition of Trump's approach to intervention and diplomacy regarding international crises. However, Sharif's declaration that he found Khamenei's killing unlawful is seen as a reflection of Pakistan's effort to demonstrate an independent foreign policy stance on regional events.
INTERNATIONAL REACTIONS
International actors such as the United Nations and the European Union have also occasionally called for the limitation of military operations and dialogue. Sharif's statement is interpreted as a diplomatic support for these efforts. Experts indicate that Pakistan highlights both regional security and the importance it places on international law with such statements.