According to Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Munir Akram, the country has been defending and propagating the Palestinian position as Israel continues its bombardment of the Gaza Strip following the surprise attack by Hamas on October 7.
Hamas launched the surprise offensive on Israel, leading to over 1,400 deaths, mostly civilians and the kidnapping of over 200 according to Israeli officials. Israel responded by relentlessly bombarding Gaza and sending in ground troops, resulting in the deaths of over 10,000 people, mostly women and children.
There have been mass protests across the world against the actions of Israel, with Western leaders supporting Israel’s actions. Many nations have begun recalling their ambassadors and diplomats from Israel.
Akram expressed that despite the UN’s “limited ability” to act and the “frustrations” within the body, there is a widespread condemnation of Israeli actions and concern for the Palestinians. He mentioned that the UN Security Council (UNSC) is “paralysed due to certain powers who have prevented the call for a ceasefire,” but the UN General Assembly (UNGA) has adopted a resolution calling for humanitarian action. The UNGA has spoken even if the UNSC has been unable to act.
Akram stated that pressure on Israel would continue to mount down the line, adding that Israel’s leaders are extremists and the conflict should eventually come to an end.