TLDR:
• Pakistan urges immediate action for Palestine
• Calls for ceasefire, humanitarian aid access
• Advocates accountability for Israeli actions
RIYADH (The Thursday Times) — Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister addressed the Council of Foreign Ministers’ preparatory meeting, outlining an urgent call to address worsening conditions in the Middle East, particularly in Palestine. Emphasising moral and legal responsibilities, he called on Muslim nations to unite in support of the Palestinian cause, criticising Israel’s ongoing aggression and violations of international law. He cited the alarming death toll, displacement, and restricted humanitarian aid as proof of the urgent need for intervention, stressing that mere condemnation is insufficient to address the crisis.
Addressing Israel’s contraventions
In the aftermath of the previous summit’s decisions aimed at resolving the Gaza conflict, the Middle East has seen escalating violence. Israel’s actions, according to Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, have disregarded international norms, leading to widespread suffering among Palestinians. The situation has grown increasingly dire, with over 44,000 Palestinians killed, countless more injured, and millions displaced. He denounced Israel’s attacks on civilian infrastructure, including homes, schools, hospitals, and shelters, which have been destroyed under what he described as systematic and intentional targeting.
Humanitarian access and accountability
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted restrictions on humanitarian aid access, particularly in Gaza, now deemed by the UN as exceedingly dangerous for aid workers. He noted Israel’s legislative attempts to delegitimise UNRWA, a UN agency essential for Palestinian aid, undermining both international aid and Palestinian support networks. Further, he condemned Israeli strikes on Lebanon, Syria, and Iran, describing them as violations of sovereignty with severe implications for regional stability. Pakistan called on the international community, particularly the United Nations, to enforce measures that protect Palestinian civilians and ensure unobstructed humanitarian assistance.
Concrete actions for regional stability
Outlining essential steps, the Deputy Prime Minister proposed an immediate ceasefire and unconditional access for humanitarian aid, the continuation of UNRWA operations, and the imposition of an arms embargo on Israel. He urged Muslim nations to nominate a Joint Arab-Islamic envoy focused on Middle Eastern issues, reinforcing a collective stance on the international stage. Additionally, Pakistan expressed its commitment to the newly established Global Alliance for a Two-State Solution, praising Saudi Arabia’s efforts to advance the Palestinian cause towards a concrete timeline for Palestinian independence under international law. He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support, including humanitarian aid deliveries, educational opportunities for Palestinian students, and medical support, underscoring the country’s enduring dedication to the Palestinian cause.
