The Senate Standing Committee on Interior has approved a bill that proposes stringent penalties for individuals propagating Zionist ideology and displaying Zionist symbols within Pakistan.
The Criminal Law Amendment Bill, presented by Senator Afnanullah Khan, seeks to criminalize Zionist propaganda, arguing that it fuels violence and threatens social cohesion. The bill asserts that Zionism, as an ideology, has a harmful impact on global peace, particularly in light of recent events in Gaza, where, according to Senator Khan, “children have been martyred under this ideology.”
Speaking to the committee, Senator Khan emphasized that Zionism promotes a divisive global agenda, fostering hostility and justifying violence against those who oppose it. He stressed the importance of curbing such influences within Pakistan to preserve national harmony.
The bill outlines that Zionism, which originated as an ethnic and religious movement with Nathan Birnbaum in 1890, later evolved into a political project aimed at establishing a Jewish homeland in Israel. It argues that the ideology has often used “extreme measures” to advance its goals, including violence and repression.
Under the provisions of the proposed legislation, individuals found guilty of spreading Zionist propaganda would face up to three years in prison and a fine of Rs. 40,000. Those found displaying Zionist symbols would be subject to a lesser penalty, including up to two years’ imprisonment and a fine of Rs. 30,000. Both offences would be classified as bailable, and neither would require immediate arrest.
Senator Khan pointed out that there are elements within Pakistan who support Zionist ideology, underscoring that the bill aims to counteract their influence and protect the country from divisive external ideologies.
