Pakistan condemns attacks on holy sites in Syria

The foreign ministry summoned a senior Syrian diplomat to convey deep concerns over such ‘reprehensible acts.’

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday summoned a senior Syrian diplomat to strongly condemn what it called the ‘deliberate and wanton’ attacks on holy sites in Syria including recent attacks on Sayyeda Bibi Zainab’s shrine in Damascus.

The foreign ministry conveyed Pakistan’s deep concerns over such ‘reprehensible acts.’

According to the foreign ministry spokesperson, the government of Pakistan urged upon Syrian authorities to ensure safety and security of all holy shrines and buildings in Syria.

“The trend of desecration of the holy sites has hurt the sentiments of Muslims in Pakistan as indeed the world over. Such violations, which also fan sectarian strife, are most reprehensible,” the spokesperson added.

Pakistan also called upon all parties involved in the Syrian conflict to observe the international humanitarian law and help protect the common heritage of mankind respecting the sanctity of the holy buildings and places of worship.

Islamabad summoned the Syrian envoy a day after countrywide protests against the desecration of holy sites.

Protesters also staged a sit-in outside the foreign office on Sunday, urging the government to denounce the attacks and take up the matter with concerned authorities.

On Monday, reports emerged that the mosque where Khalid Bin Walid, a companion of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and commander of Muslim forces known for his military prowess and conquests, had been buried in Syria, had been damaged by military shelling.