The rise in tensions between both countries comes after top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani was assassinated a US drone attack in Iraq last week.
Following the move, Iran launched missile attacks on two US military bases in Iraq on Wednesday.
A statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) today said that the army chief had received a phone call from US Secretary of Defence Mark T. Esper during which the ongoing tensions in the Middle East were discussed.
"The Secretary expressed that US doesn’t want to seek conflict, but will respond forcefully if necessary," said the ISPR statement.
“We will continue to play our constructive part towards success of Afghan reconciliation process so that it doesn’t get derailed and region goes towards conflict resolution instead of new conflicts”, COAS.(3/3).
— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) January 8, 2020
According to the statement, Gen Bajwa said Pakistan supports de-escalation and "all initiatives which bring peace to the region".
"We call upon all concerned to avoid rhetoric in favour of diplomatic engagement. We all have worked a lot to bring peace in the region by fighting against terrorism," the statement quoted the army chief as saying.
Gen Bajwa said Pakistan will continue to play its "constructive part" in the Afghan reconciliation process so that further conflict in the region can be avoided.
A day earlier, in a statement on Twitter, Esper had acknowledged receiving "sound counsel" from Gen Bajwa as well as Afghan President Ashraf Ghani.
The United States does not seek conflict, but will respond forcefully if necessary. Afghan President @ashrafghani and Pakistani General Bajwa both offered sound counsel and advice in calls today.
— Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper (@EsperDoD) January 7, 2020
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