Ahead of Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi’s visit this month, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that “Pakistan is in a position to complete [gas] pipeline project with Iran, and makes decision regarding it”.

“We are constructing gas pipeline on our side from Gwadar to the Iranian border,” Asif said while speaking on Geo News' Capital Talk programme on Monday.

Earlier this month, The News reported that Pakistan commenced the work to begin the construction of the 80km section of the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline from Gwadar to a point where it can be connected with the Iranian section of the project.

Israel-Iran tensions amid war on Gaza

In the same talk show, the defence minister condemned the Israeli attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus that led to the killing of senior military officers.

Asif categorically said that Iran has the right to retaliate as Israel attacked the former’s consulate in open violation of international laws.

He added that Pakistan was also expecting a retaliation from Iran after the Israeli attack. He expressed his views that the attack on the Iranian consulate was result of supporting Palestinians. Asif said that Pakistan is firmly standing beside the Palestinians.

He feared that rising tensions in the Middle East might affect other countries including Pakistan. Asif added that the flames of war would also engulf those countries who are backing Israel.

“We do not want tensions to increase, however, genocide of Palestinians must be stopped,” urged Asif.

The sacrifices of the Palestinians will not go in vain and they will see independence soon, the defence minister said, clarifying that Pakistan was not facing any kind of pressure to recognise Israel.

MNA/PR