PM, JI chief express concern over Israeli aggression

Shehbaz vows continued support for Palestinians

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday met with a three-member delegation of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) led by Ameer Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, where both sides expressed deep concern over Israel's continued aggression against innocent Palestinians in Gaza and the silence of international powers on the issue.

In a statement, the prime minister reaffirmed the unwavering support of Pakistan for Palestinians and pledged to continue raising a strong voice against Israeli atrocities on every international forum. "Pakistan's stance is clear—we stand firmly with our oppressed Palestinian brothers and sisters," he stated.

During the meeting, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman thanked the prime minister for the recent reduction in electricity prices. PM Shehbaz responded by highlighting his government's ongoing efforts to bring long-term reforms to the energy sector, saying, "Our team is working day and night to ensure sustainable solutions."

He added that future reforms would be designed with the common citizen in mind to ease everyday life. "Despite challenges, public relief remains our top priority, and we will continue this mission," he affirmed.

"The journey of Pakistan's development will continue, InshaAllah," the Prime Minister concluded. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Jamaat-e-Islami leaders Liaqat Baloch and Asif Luqman Qazi also attended the meeting.

United Nations

Pakistan has called for the lifting of the more than a month-long Israeli blockade of Gaza and an unimpeded humanitarian access throughout the enclave.

Speaking at an OIC ambassadorial meeting, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad reaffirmed Pakistan's "unwavering" support for the Palestinian cause, including the immediate and full implementation of the Gaza ceasefire, an end to forced displacement and colonization, including in the West Bank.

No food, fuel, medicine and commercial items have entered Gaza since 2 March following the Israeli blockade, and supplies are piling up at crossing points. (With additional input from APP)