Members of the Tehran Parliament shouted and cheered “Thank you, Pakistan,” when Pakistan’s Senate announced it would support Iran, which was odd. The local situation was getting worse.
The occasion happened because Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian brought up the resolution that criticised Israel’s recent activities against Iran. Everyone in the Iranian Majlis agreed and thanked instead of getting angry. The chant rapidly attracted the media’s attention because it could be heard all around the room.
It was not like it was a drama around political issues; as the Iranian press correctly notes, not a small wonder if some chanting and protesting could happen in an official sense, but it is probably an indication of what the military and diplomats are shoving on Iran, that the praise and prestige were so surprising was coincidence.
The resolution also said it was not for foreign intervention in the Middle East but for backing Iran and condemning Israel for being indifferent to international law. This symbolic act did not amount to much, but it was something on the other side of the Sea of Oman toward Tehran.
Officials in Islamabad downplayed the act by saying it was in furtherance of Pakistan’s long-standing commitment for peace in the area and unity among Muslims, but it was clear from the comments of the Iranian officials, that they thought it was more than a political act..
A high-ranking Iranian MP told the news, “You don’t often feel seen these days.” We truly need Pakistan’s help at this time.
The two countries are wary when they engage together on commerce because of their difficult past. The two countries used to be quite tight, but now they are very far apart on issues like energy trade and border security. But in the last few years, especially because regional alliances have altered, it seems like both capitals are more interested in establishing bridges than walls.
Some people think this could bring people together more. They might cooperate together more in the economy if both countries consider it would be preferable to rely less on Western or Gulf countries. There are also plans to host forums or work together on projects to keep the border stable, although these are still being worked out.
We don’t know yet if this good will last. But for one day, honesty beat out political theatrics. Members of the Iranian parliament don’t usually clap and say “thank you.”
People from both countries also posted images and videos of the meeting on social media, hoping it was more than simply a diplomatic high five. What occurs next will decide if it turns into something bigger, like a reset or a new start.
