Pakistan has once again reaffirmed its steadfast support for the just cause of the Palestinian people, declaring that the country will continue to raise its voice with full force at every international diplomatic forum for the rights of Palestinians. The commitment was reiterated during a high-level meeting in Islamabad between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Mahmoud Al-Habbash, Adviser on Religious Affairs to the President of Palestine and Chief Justice of the Palestinian Sharia Court, who was accompanied by a delegation.
Prime Minister’s Firm Commitment
In the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that Pakistan’s position on Palestine has always been rooted in principles of justice, international law, and solidarity with oppressed peoples. He noted that Palestinians have been facing decades of occupation, displacement, and aggression at the hands of Israel, yet continue to show resilience and bravery in the face of overwhelming odds.
The Prime Minister strongly condemned Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank, particularly the use of force against innocent civilians, the deliberate creation of a humanitarian crisis, and what he described as “man-made famine” inflicted by the occupying forces. He assured the visiting delegation that Pakistan would not only maintain but also intensify its diplomatic efforts to ensure the plight of Palestinians remains at the forefront of the global agenda.
“Palestinians are standing courageously against Israeli aggression. They are resisting in the face of blockade, displacement, and starvation,” Shehbaz Sharif remarked, adding that Pakistan would continue to send humanitarian assistance to Gaza in order to alleviate the suffering of its people.
Diplomatic Solidarity at All Levels
Prime Minister Shehbaz reaffirmed that Pakistan’s diplomatic missions around the world have been instructed to actively raise the Palestinian issue in international organizations such as the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Non-Aligned Movement, and other relevant global and regional forums. He stressed that silence in the face of injustice is unacceptable and that the international community must fulfill its moral responsibility to protect the fundamental rights of the Palestinian people.
“Pakistan’s support for Palestine is not conditional or seasonal. It is a matter of principle,” the Prime Minister declared. He recalled that Pakistan, since its inception, has consistently stood by Palestine and will continue to do so until Palestinians achieve their legitimate right to an independent state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif (Jerusalem) as its capital.
Response from Palestinian Side
Responding to Pakistan’s assurances, Mahmoud Al-Habbash expressed deep gratitude on behalf of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and the people of Palestine. He acknowledged Pakistan’s decades-long unwavering support and said that the consistent stance of Islamabad provides strength and encouragement to Palestinians who remain steadfast in their struggle for freedom and dignity.
Al-Habbash conveyed a special message from President Mahmoud Abbas, which included both appreciation for Pakistan’s solidarity and condolences over the recent losses caused by devastating floods in Pakistan. The Palestinian adviser extended heartfelt sympathy to the Pakistani nation for the suffering endured during natural disasters, noting that Palestinians share in the pain of their Pakistani brothers and sisters.
He added that the Palestinian leadership considers Pakistan a trusted and genuine partner in their struggle. “The voice of Pakistan on the global stage amplifies our cause. We are grateful that Pakistan never hesitates to stand with Palestine, regardless of pressures or challenges,” he remarked.
Humanitarian Assistance and Cooperation
The meeting also reviewed the continuation of humanitarian assistance from Pakistan to Palestine, especially to Gaza, where conditions remain dire due to ongoing Israeli blockade and military operations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that Pakistan’s relief consignments, including food, medicine, and essential supplies, have already been dispatched, and more aid is being planned to meet urgent needs.
He reiterated that Pakistan would not abandon the Palestinian people at a time when international attention is wavering. “Our conscience compels us to stand with Palestine until justice is done,” he said.
Both sides also discussed enhancing cooperation in the fields of education, religious affairs, and humanitarian development. The Prime Minister underscored the importance of building people-to-people ties between Pakistanis and Palestinians, particularly through exchange programs and cultural initiatives that strengthen bonds of Islamic brotherhood.
Historical and Political Context
Pakistan’s consistent backing of Palestine is rooted in its foreign policy principles, which prioritize the right of self-determination for all oppressed peoples. Since the early years of its independence, Pakistan has opposed Israel’s occupation and has refrained from establishing diplomatic relations with Tel Aviv, maintaining that recognition can only come after Palestinians are granted a sovereign state.
Over the decades, successive Pakistani governments, irrespective of political affiliation, have maintained this stance. Pakistan has actively supported Palestinian resolutions at the United Nations, strongly condemned Israeli military operations, and provided humanitarian and diplomatic support in times of crisis.
Regional and Global Implications
The reaffirmation of Pakistan’s commitment comes at a time when the Middle East remains embroiled in tension and conflict. The recent Israeli escalations in Gaza, along with the worsening humanitarian situation, have sparked fresh calls for global action. However, international response has largely been divided, with some states extending political backing to Israel while others, including Pakistan, Turkey, and a number of Arab and Muslim countries, strongly advocating for Palestinian rights.
Analysts believe Pakistan’s active diplomacy on the Palestinian issue serves multiple purposes: it reinforces Islamabad’s role within the Muslim world, aligns with its broader commitment to justice and international law, and resonates strongly with public opinion at home, where support for Palestine runs deep.
Concluding Remarks
The meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Mahmoud Al-Habbash thus served as a reaffirmation of Pakistan’s longstanding and principled position on Palestine. With commitments to raise its voice on every forum, continue humanitarian aid, and strengthen ties with Palestinian leadership, Pakistan has once again positioned itself as a firm ally of the Palestinian cause.
For the people of Gaza and the West Bank, the continued support from Pakistan offers both material relief and moral reassurance. As Prime Minister Shehbaz summarized, “Pakistan will always stand by Palestine—today, tomorrow, and until justice is achieved.”
