Why it matters:
As Gaza suffers under a devastating siege with its population pushed to the brink of famine, Pakistan is amplifying calls for urgent international intervention to halt Israel’s military actions and address what it terms clear violations of international humanitarian law.
What he's saying:
Asim Iftikhar, Pakistan’s representative to the United Nations, stated during a UN Security Council meeting that Gaza has been reduced to rubble after more than ten weeks of full blockade and relentless bombardment from air, land, and sea. He emphasized that over two million residents, half of whom are children, are living in intolerable conditions, and that the international community must not remain indifferent.
Iftikhar highlighted a recent World Food Programme (WFP) report revealing that 470,000 people in Gaza are facing extreme hunger, with the entire population suffering from acute food insecurity. He said 25 bakeries supported by WFP have shut down due to a complete lack of flour and fuel.
Key points:
- Pakistan highlighted the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, where prolonged blockade, relentless bombardment, and restricted access to aid have left over 2 million people—half of them children—on the brink of famine.
- Pakistan strongly condemned the use of starvation as a weapon of war, calling it a violation of international humanitarian law and a clear crime against humanity.
Go deeper:
The remarks from Pakistan come amid intensifying international scrutiny of Israel’s military attacks in Gaza and increasing reports of catastrophic humanitarian conditions. Pakistan’s firm stance reinforces mounting global pressure for an immediate ceasefire, protection of civilians, and restoration of humanitarian norms in war zones. The appeal also aligns with broader calls from other Muslim-majority nations demanding accountability for actions perceived as war crimes.
ahmad shirzadian
