'Humanity is being tested and failing in Gaza': PM Shehbaz Sharif

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took a firm stand against Israeli actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran during his speech at the Arab Islamic Summit in Riyadh on Monday, where he reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering support for the Palestinian people.

Addressing Arab and Muslim leaders, Sharif urged an immediate ceasefire, condemned Israel’s military campaign, and called for concrete actions to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

He described conditions in the Palestinian territory as unprecedented, highlighting the devastation, loss of life, and the struggles of families living under constant threat.

Calling the situation “genocide,” a term also invoked by the International Court of Justice, he sharply criticised what he viewed as a lack of global action, adding that “every moral code is flagrantly violated by Israel.”

PM Shehbaz further lamented that the international community’s “indifference and inaction” have emboldened Israel’s actions, rendering appeals for humanitarian aid and a ceasefire largely ineffective.

He expressed frustration over the continued supply of sophisticated weaponry to Israel, describing it as assured of “unconditional assistance and protection,” while accusing Israel of disregarding humanitarian laws that protect civilians.

“Humanity is being tested and failing,” he asserted, adding that such prolonged suffering has intensified Palestinian resistance and reinforced their will to fight for freedom.

In a passionate appeal for unity, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the creation of an independent, sovereign, and contiguous Palestinian state, with Jerusalem (Al-Quds Sharif) as its capital based on the pre-1967 borders.

He emphasised that Palestinian self-determination is essential for achieving “justice and durable peace in the Holy Land,” as he condemned the threat Israel’s actions pose to the region.

He further warned that recent escalations in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran carry the risk of igniting a broader regional conflict. He urged the Ummah to unite in support of Palestinians, stressing that silence on Israel’s “systematic genocide and aggression” would only allow these injustices to persist.

In closing, PM Shehbaz stressed the need for unity, calling on summit leaders to act decisively in response to the crisis. “Let this summit be a moment to transform our voices into actions,” he urged, hoping that such collective efforts could mark the beginning of Palestine’s long-awaited freedom.