- Highlights Pakistani nationals among victims of UAE attacks.
- Says fuel, energy, aviation links disrupted due to regional conflict.
- Supports Bahrain, Russia resolutions calling for cessation of hostilities, negotiations.
Pakistan called for an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East on Wednesday, warning that only a peaceful, negotiated solution could prevent further civilian casualties, regional instability and disruption of critical infrastructure and energy supplies.
“The consequences of the conflict that we are witnessing right now are clear – everyone is affected. This is a conflict that should never have happened,” Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN, told the UN Security Council.
He warned that violations of international law endanger peace. “When international law is violated, peace is endangered, not promoted. We call for an immediate and complete cessation of hostilities and a return to the dialogue table.”
Calling the Security Council’s lack of unity behind a comprehensive response to end the conflict a sad reality, the ambassador announced that Pakistan supported the two draft resolutions under discussion introduced by Bahrain and the Russian Federation.
“I thank the representatives of Bahrain and the Russian Federation for presenting their respective draft resolutions,” he said.
Pakistan’s vote in favor of Bahrain’s resolution reflects solidarity with the Gulf states, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Jordan.
“Our positive vote signifies Pakistan’s strong support to the brotherly countries of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Jordan,” he said. “It also serves to underline our condemnation of all the unjustified attacks they face, especially those targeting civilians and critical civilian infrastructure.”
He noted that these countries have been under attack despite advocating dialogue and diplomatic engagement. “It is very unfortunate that the sister states … came under attack despite constantly supporting dialogue, facilitating diplomatic engagement and advocating to avoid escalation,” he said.
At the same time, Pakistan welcomed the resolution of the Russian Federation, which calls for restraint, cessation of military activities and return to negotiations.
“The draft resolution presented by the Russian Federation … calls on the parties to stop military activities, refrain from further escalation and return to negotiations – something that is in line with Pakistan’s overall position,” he said.
Highlighting the humanitarian and socio-economic consequences, Ambassador Ahmad noted that at least two Pakistani nationals were killed in attacks on the UAE and millions of Pakistanis in the Gulf remain at risk.
“Our fuel supply has been seriously hampered, forcing the government to take extraordinary measures to preserve the use of oil, gas and electricity,” he said. “Several essential aviation links have been disrupted, while others are facing disruption.”
He condemned all unlawful use of force and urged compliance with international humanitarian law. “Any use of force outside the bounds of the UN Charter is illegal and reprehensible,” he said.
The ambassador emphasized the need for dialogue and diplomacy. “We call for an early return to dialogue and diplomacy to pursue a peaceful resolution of all contentious issues…Sincere engagement and genuine political will are required to restore trust and build the foundation for peaceful coexistence,” he said.
Pakistan also acknowledged the ongoing mediation efforts in the region. “We welcome and deeply appreciate the sincere efforts made by various countries to mediate between the warring parties,” he said, noting that Pakistan has been in close contact with regional and international partners.
He concluded by reiterating Pakistan’s call for restraint. “All sides must immediately de-escalate the situation, refrain from further attacks and immediately resume diplomacy for a negotiated, lasting solution to the crisis,” he said.
