Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi (L) and Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Ishaq Dar

Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Ishaq Dar has expressed hope for peace and security in Iran in the wake of the recent foreign-backed unrest.

Dar was speaking in a telephone conversation with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on Friday night.

The two sides exchanged views on the current situation in Iran, as well as unfolding developments in the West Asia region.

Both officials also agreed to continue bilateral consultations on matters of mutual interest.

The unrest in Iran, which initially stemmed from currency volatility and rising inflation linked to unlawful US and European sanctions, escalated on January 8 when coordinated attacks targeted public, state and religious sites.

Armed groups attacked shops, banks, bus stations and mosques, killing a number of security personnel and civilians.

Authorities say evidence shows foreign-backed terrorist groups distributed weapons, deliberately targeted civilians and security forces, and acted with the direct involvement of the United States and Israel.