Pakistan strongly condemned Israel’s military offensive in Gaza as a gross violation of international law and human rights, leading to civilian casualties including women and children. Islamabad called on the international community to take immediate, decisive action to halt what it considers state terrorism against Palestinian people.
Pakistan issued an official statement from its Ministry of Foreign Affairs Tuesday morning expressing “deep anguish and grave concern” at Israel’s onslaught on densely populated areas in Gaza by their forces, particularly attacks against hospitals and refugee shelters by Israeli forces. Pakistan noted: “Israel’s assault against unarmed civilians, including attacks on hospitals and refugee shelters, is both shocking and unacceptable,” as stated in this official document.
Government leaders urged an immediate ceasefire and demanded action by United Nations and international human rights bodies to end the violence in Gaza. “The world cannot remain silent in face of this humanitarian catastrophe; crimes being committed in Gaza must be held to account,” stated a Foreign Office spokesperson.
Prime Minister and President Speak Out
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also took to social media in solidarity with Palestine. In an ardent post on X (formerly Twitter), he stated, “Pakistan stands with Gaza… The use of force by Israel must end, targeting hospitals, schools and homes is war crime that must not go unpunished”.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed outrage over Israel’s actions and noted that international inaction is further emboldening them. Zardari commented, during a meeting with Palestinian Ambassador Ahmed Rabei in Pakistan: “The silence of powerful nations is deafening; now is the time for an awakening in regard to Gaza suffering”.
Protests Across Pakistan
In response to Israel’s attack on Gaza, protests erupted across major cities in Pakistan such as Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. Tens of thousands took to the streets chanting slogans supporting Palestine while demanding stronger measures at international forums from their government.
Religious scholars, political parties and civil society organizations organized rallies, calling upon Muslim-majority countries to band together against aggression by taking collective diplomatic action such as boycotts and sanctions.
Demands OIC and UN Intervention in Afghanistan conflict
Pakistan also requested that the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) convene an emergency session to address this crisis, with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stating, “Now is a momentous test for all Muslims around the world – let us rise above political divisions and act together in protecting Palestine,”
Pakistan also strongly encouraged the United Nations Security Council to fulfill its responsibility in upholding global peace, as evidenced by their Foreign Office emphasising that mere statements of concern no longer suffice and demanding immediate measures, including sanctions on Israel, to stop further bloodshed.
Historical Support for Palestine
Pakistan has consistently supported the Palestinian cause since its inception, refusing to recognize Israel until an equitable and lasting solution has been found. Pakistani officials have frequently stressed that only a two-state solution, with pre-1967 borders as capital of Palestine and East Jerusalem serving as its capital city, will bring lasting peace in this part of Asia.
Pakistan’s call for global conscience aims to amplify the voices of millions who demand justice, peace and an end to occupation in Gaza.