Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Munir Akram, during the High-Level Debate of the UNSC on “the Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question,” called on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to hold Israel accountable for war crimes and atrocities in Gaza, where the death toll due to Israeli actions has now exceeded 6,000.
In his address, Ambassador Akram asserted that under international law, the struggle of peoples living under foreign occupation for self-determination and national liberation is legitimate and cannot be equated with terrorism. He emphasized that the continuation of Israeli occupation in the region will not bring peace to the “Holy Land.”
Regarding the displacement of the Palestinian population in Gaza, he stated, “The Council must reject Israel’s attempts to displace the Gazans, whether within or outside Gaza.” He expressed regret for the UNSC’s inability to issue a call for a ceasefire and warned, “A heavy responsibility will rest on those who contribute to the prolongation of the conflict.”
Akram called for the immediate and unconditional establishment of a sustainable pipeline of life-saving humanitarian assistance, including water, fuel, food, and medicines for the besieged people of Gaza, cautioning that the continuation of the Israeli campaign in Gaza could lead to further significant civilian casualties and a potential escalation of the conflict.
Ambassador Akram also commended the role of Egypt and UN agencies in facilitating the delivery of some humanitarian assistance but stressed that more needs to be done. He expressed hope that a sustainable pipeline of life-saving humanitarian aid, encompassing essential provisions like water, fuel, food, and medicines, will be established.
