Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has strongly condemned the ongoing war against Iran, describing it as unlawful and warning that escalating tensions in the Middle East risk igniting a broader global conflict. He voiced his concerns during a ceremony in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh commemorating the 47th death anniversary of PPP founder and former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.
Bilawal expressed deep sorrow over recent attacks, including a strike on an Iranian school that resulted in the deaths of children, calling it a profoundly tragic event. He criticised the continued aggression in the region, emphasizing that the volatile security situation is no longer confined to Iran but is impacting countries worldwide, including Pakistan.
Highlighting his experience as a former foreign minister, he stressed that war fails to resolve disputes and instead causes immense suffering to civilians. He noted that Pakistan, alongside other nations, is actively supporting initiatives aimed at achieving a ceasefire and restoring peace in the region. “We pray for all those forces, including the Pakistani government, who are working to achieve a ceasefire,” Bilawal stated.
In a significant development, Bilawal underscored Pakistan’s defence capabilities, particularly its nuclear arsenal, which was envisioned by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. He asserted that this strength acts as a powerful deterrent against external threats. “Iran, Lebanon and Syria are under attack, yet the Zionist forces cannot even dare to set their sights on Pakistan,” he remarked.
Reaffirming his party’s commitment to national unity, Bilawal said the PPP has consistently advocated for cohesion during difficult periods and will continue to play a role in uniting the country. On the domestic front, he called for political consensus, noting that federal and provincial governments have collaborated to provide public relief amid economic challenges exacerbated by Middle East tensions.
He urged all political stakeholders to put aside their differences and work together in the national interest during these trying times. Additionally, Bilawal announced that the PPP-led Sindh government is preparing a fuel subsidy plan for private transport operators to prevent fare hikes.
This announcement followed Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah’s recent declaration of relief measures, including a Rs2,000 subsidy for each registered motorcyclist for the month of April, in response to the sharp increase in fuel prices. The relief package also extends support to the public transport and transport sectors, with registered passenger buses receiving Rs100,000 per vehicle monthly, two-axle trucks Rs70,000, and heavy trucks Rs80,000. Intra-city buses with higher fuel consumption will be granted additional assistance.
