Pakistan has strongly rejected Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s recent remarks about “Greater Israel” and plans for the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, warning that such actions are a blatant violation of international law and UN resolutions.
Pakistan’s Strong Response
In a statement, Foreign Office spokesperson Ambassador Shafqat Ali Khan said the provocative rhetoric reflects Israel’s intent to entrench its illegal occupation while showing complete disregard for international peace efforts. He urged the global community to reject these notions and take urgent steps to halt ongoing crimes against Palestinians.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support, the FO reiterated its backing for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the creation of an independent, viable, and contiguous Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
Settlement Expansion in the West Bank
The condemnation came as Israeli far-right Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced the revival of a controversial settlement project in the sensitive E1 area near East Jerusalem. Critics argue the plan would divide the occupied West Bank, undermining prospects for a contiguous Palestinian state.
Israeli settlements in the West Bank are considered illegal under international law, though Tel Aviv describes the land as “disputed.” Around 700,000 settlers already live among 2.7 million Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
UN Labels Plan a ‘War Crime’
The UN human rights office declared the Israeli settlement scheme a “war crime,” stressing that transferring civilians into occupied territory violates international law and risks forcing Palestinians into isolated enclaves. It warned that such actions would shatter hopes for a two-state solution.
Controversial Relocation Talks with South Sudan
Meanwhile, reports suggested Israel and South Sudan were discussing the relocation of Palestinians from Gaza, though Juba dismissed the claims. Palestinian leaders condemned the idea, comparing it to a second Nakba, a repeat of the mass displacement of 1948.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. The UN reported that at least 1,760 Palestinians have been killed while seeking aid since late May. On Friday alone, 23 more people were killed by Israeli strikes, including 12 waiting for humanitarian assistance.
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