Islamabad, Pakistan reiterated its stance on Friday, calling for India to be held responsible for human rights abuses in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) region. Over 7,000 Kashmiris have reportedly died in Indian custody over the past three decades. The Foreign Office spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, emphasized the urgent need for accountability during a press briefing.
Baloch expressed concern over the recent death of a Kashmiri civilian in IIOJK’s Pulwama district, highlighting it as part of a pattern of custodial deaths in the region. She reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri people’s quest for a just and peaceful resolution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in line with UN Security Council resolutions.
In addition to addressing the situation in IIOJK, Baloch mentioned Pakistan’s election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the term 2025-2026. With strong support from 182 UN General Assembly members, particularly the Asia Pacific Group, Pakistan aims to play a constructive role in resolving disputes peacefully, opposing unilateral force, combating terrorism, supporting peacekeeping efforts, and promoting democracy and accountability.
Furthermore, Pakistan strongly condemned the recent bombing of Israeli forces on a UN-run school housing Palestinian refugees, which resulted in the deaths of numerous women and children. Baloch denounced the deliberate targeting of civilian populations and facilities as a violation of international law and war crimes.
Addressing the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound by Israeli extremists, Baloch emphasized the need for respect for religious sites by the occupiers. She called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire to prevent further civilian casualties and urged accountability for Israel’s actions.
Upcoming diplomatic initiatives were also mentioned, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar’s planned visit to Istanbul for an extraordinary meeting of the D8 Council of Foreign Ministers on the Gaza situation. The ministers will discuss the international community’s shared responsibility to establish a ceasefire and end the conflict in Gaza.
Additionally, Baloch informed the media of the passing of Tunisian Ambassador Borhene El Kamel in Islamabad and extended condolences to the Tunisian government and the ambassador’s family. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China, where 23 Memorandums of Understanding were signed to enhance bilateral cooperation across various sectors, was also highlighted.
Overall, Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and calls for accountability in various international crises underscore its commitment to promoting peace, justice, and respect for human rights on the global stage.