Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN), Munir Akram, has stated that Islamabad has been at the forefront in supporting and advocating for the Palestinian position as Israel continues its bombardment of the Gaza Strip following a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7.
Akram mentioned that Pakistan has effectively articulated the Palestinian position and remains actively engaged as a leading country among Arab and Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) nations in seeking ways to end the ongoing tragic conflict. He also highlighted that widespread global protests have erupted against the severe actions taken against Palestinians.
Akram pointed out that the UN Security Council is hindered in calling for a ceasefire due to the influence of certain member states, but the UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution calling for a humanitarian truce, the cessation of hostilities, and humanitarian aid for Gaza.
Akram emphasized the need for international pressure on Israel to stop its military actions against Palestinian civilians. He mentioned that the UNGA has residual powers to maintain international peace and security when the UNSC is unable to act. Akram suggested that these powers could be used to implement various measures to pressure and penalize Israel, such as an oil export embargo, termination of trade relations, or civil aviation restrictions.
He also highlighted that the decisive power in this matter lies with the United States, and international pressure may lead to a halt in the conflict. Finally, he expressed the hope that the ongoing conflict would eventually come to an end, as it cannot continue indefinitely.
