Pakistan Condemns Israeli Aggression Against Iran

Pakistan has voiced strong condemnation of what it describes as “unjustified and illegitimate aggression” by Israel targeting Iran. The nation is appealing to the international community and the United Nations to intervene immediately, uphold international law, and ensure Israel is held accountable for its actions.

During a press briefing on Friday, Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan stated that the Israeli military actions infringe upon Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, constituting a clear breach of the UN Charter and fundamental principles of international law. He asserted Iran’s right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter.

The spokesperson conveyed Pakistan’s firm solidarity with the people of Iran, denouncing the Israeli actions as overt provocations that gravely endanger regional and global peace, security, and stability.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar engaged in telephone discussions with his counterparts from Iran, Turkiye, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the United Kingdom, as confirmed by the spokesperson.

The discussions revolved around the escalating regional situation, with the leaders expressing worries about the heightened tensions. They concurred on the importance of collaborative efforts to sustain peace and stability, emphasizing the necessity of de-escalating tensions.

The spokesperson also noted that 21 Muslim countries have collectively condemned Israel’s aggression against Iran, deeming it a violation of international laws and the UN Charter.

Pakistan’s longstanding call for the prompt establishment of a Middle East zone free of nuclear and major weapons of mass destruction was reiterated by the spokesperson.

Reports indicate that the conflict between Iran and Israel has persisted for seven days, with recent missile strikes impacting areas across southern and central Israel, including a direct hit on a hospital in Beersheba.

According to Israeli officials, Iran launched a barrage of missiles, some of which struck regions near Tel Aviv and the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba. The hospital sustained significant damage, with sections catching fire.

The hospital’s director, Shlomi Codish, stated that 40 individuals were injured in the strike, adding that several wards were destroyed completely, and substantial damage occurred throughout the hospital.

In response, Iranian officials have claimed that the missile barrage targeted a nearby military and intelligence facility, not the hospital.