PM calls APC on Middle East conflict

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced an all-parties conference (APC) on Palestine, scheduled for October 7, marking one year since the beginning of Israel's ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.

The decision came during a meeting between PM Shehbaz, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and a delegation from Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), led by Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, held at the Prime Minister's House.

The political leaders present unanimously agreed to show national solidarity with Gaza and the Palestinian people, who continue to endure atrocities.

The conference, hosted by PM Shehbaz, aims to raise a united voice against the oppression of innocent Palestinians and to express support for their cause.

It was decided that October 7 would be observed as a nationwide Day of Solidarity to condemn Israeli aggression and support the suffering Palestinians.

A special committee was also formed to organise the APC and related solidarity events. This committee includes Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Sherry Rehman, Khawaja Saad Rafique, and Nayyar Bukhari.

The day will feature gatherings and seminars across Pakistan to express solidarity with Palestinians.

The APC is expected to see the participation of President Asif Ali Zardari and PM Shehbaz. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari voiced strong support for the Day of Solidarity, while Jamaat-e-Islami's consistent backing for the Palestinians was also praised during the meeting.

Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, whose PPP's support proved crucial in the formation of Shehbaz's government, welcomed the decision, saying: "I welcome the Government's decision for the President and Prime Minister to host an all-parties conference on Palestine on 7th October."

He further added in a social media post, "One year since occupation forces began their ruthless massacre in Gaza, the war theatre has expanded to include Lebanon and threatens to engulf the entire region. The whole country must speak with one voice against the imperialists' Zionist agenda."

October 7 will also be observed as Palestine Solidarity Day, marking the first anniversary of Israel's latest wave of atrocities against the people of Palestine.

It is important to note that Pakistan has consistently condemned the conflict in Gaza at various international forums, highlighting the loss of over 40,000 Palestinian lives, mostly women and children, while calling for an immediate ceasefire and accountability for Israel's "war crimes."

Pakistan, which does not recognise Israel, has long been a staunch supporter of the Palestinian cause, a stance that dates back to its own independence in 1947.