National assembly passes resolution condemning Israeli crimes in Gaza

Pakistan’s National Assembly unanimously passed a resolution condemning the Israeli military attacks on Gaza and displaying unflinching solidarity with the Palestinian people. Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, while speaking at the assembly session, said the whole country was united in the condemnation of brutal acts against innocent Palestinians. He said the Gaza offensive by the Israelis has achieved horrific proportions and the world must no longer remain silent.

Azam Nazeer Tarar pointed out that the world over, masses are taking to streets protesting against injustices being meted out to Palestinians. He strongly asserted that if it is Palestine or Kashmir, their voice cannot be gagged by explosives and bullets. He pointed towards the shocking fact that in Gaza, even hospitals, ambulances, and humanitarian workers are not spared from Israeli attacks. The situation has become serious and calls for immediate international attention and action.

He further added that attacking hospitals and relief agencies in Gaza is an inhumane and reprehensible act. The cycle of violence and oppression needs to be ended immediately. He called upon the international community to unite as one to bring about a lasting and peaceful solution to the Palestinian problem, adding that unity and cooperation are necessary to end this bloodshed and to bring about justice.

The wording of the resolution, read before the assembly, reiterated Pakistan’s strong opposition to the Israeli military onslaught. It paid tribute to the memory of more than 60,000 Palestinian martyrs who have lost their lives so far in the conflict. The resolution also roundly condemned Israel for continuing the attacks in the face of global appeals for a ceasefire, noting that even when there were claimed truces, the bombings continued unabated.

The resolution also declared that Israel’s actions demonstrate an absolute failure of the international community to safeguard human rights and prevent war crimes. It called for an immediate withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, declaring their continued occupation as an act of unjustified aggression.

Federal Minister for Information Atta Tarar also spoke to the assembly and discussed Pakistan’s diplomatic policy. He indicated that Pakistan has officially signed South Africa’s appeal at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in which Israel is accused of genocide and violation of international laws. He highly appreciated the nations that have also signed this appeal and referred to them as patrons of justice and humanity.

Atta Tarar expressed gratitude to Jamaat-e-Islami and the Alkhidmat Foundation for their work to provide humanitarian assistance to Gaza. While Jamaat-e-Islami does not have any representation in the assembly at present, he recognized their immense contribution to relief work. He further mentioned that the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has worked with Alkhidmat Foundation to provide assistance to the affected people in Gaza.

In a general sentiment, speakers during the session emphasized that the brutality of the level in Gaza is unprecedented and that the Muslim world needs to regard this as an opportunity to unite. The resolution explicitly conveys that Pakistan stands strongly with the Palestinian nation in their struggle for survival, dignity, and freedom.