Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab to remain open during his address to the United Nations General Assembly.
He described both waterways as vital routes for the global economy.
PM Warns Against Regional Escalation
Speaking at the 81st UN General Assembly session in New York, Shehbaz Sharif said the waterways should connect nations rather than become points of confrontation.
He also condemned Houthi attacks targeting holy cities in Saudi Arabia.
The prime minister said Pakistan stands with Saudi Arabia. He described the Makkah pact as a collective commitment to regional defence, stability and peace.
Shehbaz also recalled Pakistan’s military response during last year’s conflict with India. He said Pakistani forces responded with precision and repelled the attack.
Pakistan Warns Over Indus Water Treaty
The prime minister also raised the issue of the Indus Waters Treaty.
He described water as the lifeblood of Pakistan and the wider region.
Shehbaz warned that any attempt to stop, restrict or divert Pakistan’s share of river waters would be treated as an “act of war.”
He said India’s decision to place the treaty on hold had no legal basis.
Shehbaz maintained that the treaty remains valid and binding. He also said water should not be used as a political or military weapon.
Shehbaz Condemns Israel’s Actions in Gaza
The prime minister strongly criticised Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank.
He highlighted the suffering of Palestinian civilians, particularly women, children and elderly people.
Shehbaz referred to the deaths of Palestinian children, including Hind Rajab and Wafaa Akeela.
He questioned whether children in Gaza deserve the same future and opportunities as children elsewhere.
Pakistan, he said, supports an independent, sovereign and viable Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
He also condemned Israeli military actions in Lebanon and Syria and called for an immediate end to the violence.
