Pakistani Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad made an impassioned appeal to the UN Security Council (UNSC) on May 28, calling for immediate and decisive action to ease Gaza’s humanitarian crisis and its related Israeli military operations that are leading to civilian casualties and therefore justifying intervention by international players. To this end, Ambassador Ahmad highlighted how moral imperative there was for intervention from outside sources as Israeli military operations continued and civilian deaths escalated; Arab News/Aaj English TV News picked up his speech and reported on it live from New York on May 29.
“Gaza’s pleas cannot go unanswered; history will judge those who delay justice for genocide,” Ambassador Ahmad remarked. He then added, “History will not forgive those who delay it”. Aaj English TV, YouTube and United Nations Press all provide more coverage.
Pakistan’s appeal comes amid reports of increased Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, leading to civilian casualties and widespread destruction. The UN has highlighted the dire humanitarian situation with limited access to essential services and an ever-increasing number of displaced people.
Pakistan presented three demands to the UNSC on April 18:
Aaj English TV An immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Its WAFA Agency Wikipedia Lifting of blockades to allow humanitarian aid.
Protection of civilians under international law was also highlighted, along with his criticism of the UNSC for their lack of action and how inaction weakens both credibility and legal order internationally.
Arab News
The address follows UNSC Resolution 2728’s passage in March 2024, calling for a ceasefire during Ramadan. Unfortunately, its implementation has been inconsistent, with reports of ongoing hostilities and humanitarian challenges in Gaza.
Wikipedia Pakistan has long supported the Palestinian cause and upheld international humanitarian principles, advocating for two-state solutions and upholding Palestinian rights.
As Gaza’s situation worsens, Pakistan’s call to action reaffirms the urgency for international community members to respond effectively and uphold principles of justice and human rights.