Pakistan Urges Israel to Halt Illegal Settlements at UN Security Council
New York: Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, called on Israel to immediately halt all illegal settlement activities during a United Nations Security Council meeting. He stressed that lasting peace in the Middle East can only be achieved through the establishment of an independent Palestinian state in accordance with UN resolutions.
Concern Over the Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The Pakistani envoy expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and urged the international community to act urgently.
According to his remarks:
- Basic necessities: More than 90% of Gaza's population lacks access to clean drinking water, food, and essential medicines.
- Call for aid: The international community should ensure an immediate and lasting ceasefire and guarantee unrestricted humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza.
Condemnation of International Law Violations
Asim Iftikhar urged Israel to end what he described as serious violations of international law.
"Violence by settlers, forced displacement of Palestinians, and demolition of homes are unacceptable," he said.
He also called for the immediate release of withheld Palestinian Authority funds to prevent further deterioration of the administrative and economic situation.
Two-State Solution Remains the Only Path to Peace
Reaffirming Pakistan's long-standing position, the envoy said that a sovereign, independent, and territorially contiguous Palestinian state based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds (Jerusalem) as its capital, remains the only viable path toward lasting peace in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Pakistan's position: Called on Israel at the UN Security Council to stop illegal settlement activities.
- Gaza crisis: Urged an immediate ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian assistance for civilians.
- Financial support: Requested the release of withheld Palestinian Authority funds.
- Two-state solution: Reaffirmed support for an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders