Pakistani Foreign Minister Khursheed Kasuri has said Pakistan strictly opposes any expected US attack on Iran, and will stand by Iran if this extreme step is taken by Washington. Iranian foreign minister`s statement during his recent visit to Pakistan provides testimony to our policy towards Tehran. Pakistan aspires to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue according to the principles of the IAEA, he added. Kasuri told newsmen here on Saturday neglecting defence would be a suicide in the present scenario and Pakistan would acquire latest technology and defence equipment at all costs to maintain a balance of power in the region. The deferred purchase of F-16s has started. This was put on hold only for coping with the situation arising out of the Oct 8 earthquake, he said. India has made agreements with Russia, the US and other countries to pile up weapons and this situation has forced Pakistan to consider every option for its survival, he said. Responding to a question on Israel, he said Pakistan would not restore diplomatic contacts with Israel till it recognises Palestine as an independent state.