Pakistan’s permanent representative to the United Nations emphasized the urgent need for restraint, diplomacy, and strict compliance with international law as tensions escalate across the Middle East. Speaking during a UN Security Council debate on Tuesday, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad highlighted the volatile and interconnected nature of multiple crises in the region, stressing the importance of de-escalation efforts.
He underscored that adherence to the UN Charter, Security Council resolutions, and principles of responsible conduct are crucial to preventing further escalation. The ambassador pointed out that Palestine remains central to regional stability and must remain the primary focus of international attention. He noted the significance of the debate was reflected in the high-level participation within the Security Council chamber.
Addressing the situation in Gaza, the envoy warned that despite a ceasefire providing some relief, the conditions remain precarious with ongoing violations. He revealed that over 800 Palestinians have lost their lives due to Israeli strikes since the ceasefire was declared. While humanitarian aid has resumed, it remains insufficient to address the urgent needs on the ground. The ambassador called for full respect and consolidation of the ceasefire alongside sustained, unhindered, and expanded humanitarian assistance.
Turning to the occupied West Bank, he expressed deep concern over the rapidly worsening situation marked by increased settler violence, ongoing illegal settlement expansion, and unlawful legislative actions, all constituting serious breaches of international law.
In a significant development, the ambassador warned that broader regional tensions pose serious threats not only to international peace and security but also to global economic stability. He highlighted the adverse impact of instability in the Strait of Hormuz on countries worldwide, including Pakistan.
Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to diplomatic solutions, he emphasized the country’s active engagement in promoting dialogue at this critical juncture. The envoy concluded by reaffirming that resolving the Palestinian issue is essential for achieving lasting peace, describing the establishment of a Palestinian state as the only viable path toward a just and comprehensive resolution of the Middle East conflict.
