Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday congratulated Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei on his appointment as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, expressing hope that under his leadership the neighbouring country would move toward peace, stability and prosperity.
In a letter and social media post, the premier offered his deepest condolences on the death of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other family members, whose deaths were confirmed following coordinated strikes reported to involve the United States and Israel.
Shehbaz Sharif said the tragic event had “deeply saddened the people of Pakistan, who stand in solidarity with the leadership and people of Iran during this difficult time.” He added that he was confident the new Supreme Leader would guide Iran toward peace, stability, dignity and prosperity in the years ahead.”
Highlighting the longstanding ties between Islamabad and Tehran, the prime minister described Pakistan–Iran relations as rooted in shared faith, history, culture and language, and reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to continue working closely with Iran to strengthen bilateral cooperation across areas of mutual interest.
In his message, Shehbaz also prayed for the health and success of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei and for peace and prosperity for the brotherly people of Iran.
The appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s top clerical and political authority follows his selection by the country’s Assembly of Experts and comes amid ongoing regional tensions, with Iran’s leadership transition expected to have implications for regional stability and diplomatic relations.