Pakistan Denounces Israeli Actions as “War Crimes” at UNGA

Pakistan, at the United Nations General Assembly, condemned the severe measures imposed on Gaza’s inhabitants by Israeli forces, branding the actions as potential “war crimes and crimes against humanity.”

Ambassador Munir Akram, representing Pakistan, did not mince words in the emergency session convened in the UNGA following the inaction of the Security Council on the Israel-Palestine conflict. He brought attention to the harsh realities appearing across global media, stating, “What we are witnessing… may amount to a veritable genocide.” The Ambassador’s speech underscored the escalating human tragedy, marking it as an event of epic proportions witnessed firsthand by the global community.

He shed light on the dire situation, informing the assembly of the relentless 20-day bombardment campaign by Israel, resulting in a staggering number of casualties – seven thousand Palestinians, including numerous children, and 17,000 injuries. Akram emphasized the complete obliteration of entire families and neighbourhoods, alongside the severe disruption of fundamental resources – water, food, and fuel, leading to over a million internally displaced persons.

Calls for Immediate Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid

In anticipation of the vote on a comprehensive resolution presented by Jordan, representing 40 Arab and Islamic nations, Pakistan was vocal in its support. The resolution’s crucial points included an immediate and sustained humanitarian truce and a firm demand for all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law. It explicitly called for a continuous, unobstructed flow of crucial supplies and services into Gaza.

However, the resolution faced opposition through an amendment proposed by Canada, outrightly condemning Hamas’s actions starting October 7. In response, Ambassador Akram encouraged member states to stand in solidarity with the original resolution and dismiss Canada’s one-sided amendment.

Amid the crisis, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ warnings about the conflict’s potential escalation were met with derogatory remarks from Israeli representatives. Pakistan’s envoy urged the General Assembly to collectively denounce these disrespectful comments, reaffirming trust and support for the Secretary-General’s role and perspectives.

In his closing remarks, Ambassador Akram highlighted the disturbing manner of the killings, executed not by militants but by a state claiming to be democratic. He criticized the entities for allowing the continuation of violence by hindering the Security Council’s call for a ceasefire.

Asserting the need for justice, he called for an accountability mechanism for the crimes committed, stating that they “cannot go unpunished” and referencing several precedents. Looking forward, he emphasized the international community’s role in preventing further recurrence of such devastating violence.