Pakistan has permitted the export of food items to neighboring Iran for the next three months, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, officials said on Saturday.

According to a statement by Trade Minister Jam Kamal Khan, Islamabad has also allowed trade with Azerbaijan and other Central Asian countries through land routes via Iran, temporarily easing several previous conditions until June.

The relaxed conditions include requirements such as bank guarantees, letters of credit, and other financial instruments, aimed at facilitating smoother trade flows.

Under the new measures, Pakistani exporters will be able to supply a range of goods to Iran, including rice, seafood, meat, vegetables, and fruits. Concessions have also been granted for the export of pharmaceutical products.

The minister said the move is intended to boost regional trade and reduce the cost of doing business.

The decision comes just days after Pakistan approved the export of surplus food items to Gulf countries.

Meanwhile, tensions in the region remain high following a joint offensive by the United States and Israel against Iran in late February. Since early March, Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route, raising concerns over energy supplies and international trade.

The conflict has reportedly resulted in more than 1,300 deaths so far. In retaliation, Iran has carried out drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and several Gulf states hosting US military assets, further escalating regional instability.