ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Saturday welcomed the the United Nations top court Friday’s ruling directing Israel to immediately cease its all-out military operations in Rafah.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ), responding to a plea by South Africa in the genocide case against Israel, amended its earlier order and instructed Israel to halt its military offensive in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza. ICJ President Nawaf Salam emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating that Israel must cease any actions in Rafah that could endanger the lives of Palestinians in Gaza.
In a statement, the Foreign Office spokesperson affirmed Pakistan’s support for South Africa’s application before the ICJ and welcomed the additional provisional measures announced by the Court. The statement called for the Rafah crossing to remain open for humanitarian aid and for unrestricted access to Gaza by UN investigative bodies.
Pakistan urged the immediate and unconditional implementation of the ICJ’s latest orders against Israel, along with previous directives issued in January and March. It also called upon the UN Security Council to intervene in ending Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, ensuring the flow of humanitarian aid, protecting civilians, and holding Israel accountable for its actions.
Pakistan reiterated its steadfast support for the Palestinians’ right to self-determination, advocating for a sovereign State of Palestine based on the pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the ICJ’s decision, affirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. He expressed hope for similar international attention towards the plight of Kashmiris, who have suffered under decades of occupation and human rights violations.
