Karachi, March 25 (ANI): Rising tensions between Iran and the United States are stoking serious worries in Pakistan, with experts warning that a failure in talks could bring severe economic and social consequences.
Senior Karachi-based journalist Shams Kerio told ANI that negotiations—largely focused on Iran’s nuclear programme—have been undermined by recent incidents, including alleged military actions during the dialogue. He questioned the credibility of talks if such actions can recur and urged both sides to resume negotiations, saying “issues can only be resolved through dialogue, not conflict.” Kerio added that Iran needs credible assurances to rebuild trust.
Kerio warned that a breakdown in talks would further strain Pakistan’s fragile economy. He said Pakistan’s heavy reliance on regional trade and oil imports makes it vulnerable to disruptions that could spark inflation and instability. Structural fiscal challenges—high government spending and thin reserves—would compound the impact, he said, arguing for tighter fiscal management and reduced expenditure to help control inflation during a crisis.
Rising fuel prices, Kerio noted, would hit the poorest hardest. Daily wage earners already face hardship; higher petrol costs would exacerbate food insecurity and unemployment while increasing input costs for agriculture and industry. He cautioned that a prolonged conflict could widen beyond the region if other powers, such as Russia or China, became involved, raising the risk of a broader confrontation.
“If the war continues, Pakistan’s economy could collapse due to lack of reserves and weak financial accountability,” Kerio warned, stressing that ordinary citizens would bear the brunt. Still, he offered cautious optimism: a peaceful resolution could allow a gradual recovery. He said meaningful progress requires a change in approach—particularly from the United States—and insisted that peace depends on sincerity, trust and a genuine commitment to dialogue. (ANI)
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