Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani confirmed on Sunday that there are no plans to recognise Israel and that he did not meet his Israeli counterpart during the 78th UN General Assembly in New York. This comes as Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen claimed to have met with leaders from several Muslim countries who have not yet recognised Israel. Cohen also suggested that six or seven Muslim nations may be considering normalising ties with Israel following Saudi Arabia’s potential inclusion in the Abraham Accords. However, Jilani stated that there were no discussions on this matter and that Pakistan has a clear stance on the issue.
Jilani Denies Meeting Israeli Counterpart
When asked if he had met with the Israeli foreign minister during the UN session, Jilani responded, “I have not even seen his face.” He further clarified that he did not see the Israeli minister in group meetings and would not be able to recognise him if he did. Jilani reiterated that there is no intention within Pakistan to recognise Israel, emphasizing that this position was repeatedly mentioned in his statement to the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
Pakistan’s Stance on Palestine
Jilani represented Pakistan at a meeting of the OIC committee of six Muslim foreign ministers on Palestine during the UN General Assembly. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with the Palestinian people and stressed the importance of implementing relevant UN and OIC resolutions. Jilani called for the establishment of a viable and independent State of Palestine, with its capital at Al-Quds Al-Sharif, based on pre-1967 borders and internationally agreed parameters.
Expressing deep concern about the deteriorating situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, Jilani strongly condemned Israeli atrocities, such as the killing of innocent civilians, the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the expansion of illegal settlements, settler violence, administrative detentions, and airstrikes on Gaza. He highlighted that these actions by Israel demonstrate a complete disregard for human rights and the rule of law.
Call for Accountability and International Action
Jilani stressed the importance of holding Israel accountable for its illegal actions and acts of aggression. He called for meaningful deterrence and urged the international community to protect the Palestinians from Israeli atrocities. The meeting of the OIC committee proposed the formation of a joint group open to all member states to promote the implementation of the committee’s decisions.
In conclusion, Pakistan remains steadfast in its support for the Palestinian cause and does not have any plans to recognise Israel. The country continues to advocate for the establishment of a Palestinian state and condemns Israeli violations of human rights and international law.