Pakistan’s government on Monday defended its decision to join an international Board of Peace linked to efforts to ease the fighting in Gaza, but the issue surfaced during a session that was largely focused on domestic legislation before Parliament adjourned a joint sitting.
Ahsan Iqbal Says Pakistan’s Palestine Policy Remains Unchanged
The questions raised by opposition leaders on the floor were addressed by Ahsan Iqbal, the Planning and Development Minister for Pakistan. He explained the decision was not a shift in policy rather a diplomatic step, and told lawmakers that Pakistan remained aligned with countries calling for an end to the violence. The comments received criticism from Raja Nasir Abbas who is the Senate Opposition Leader and also by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.
The minister stated that Pakistan’s position on Palestine had not changed and remained consistent with its long-standing stance and Pakistan, continues to support the creation of an independent Palestinian state on pre-1967 borders, while viewing Israel as an aggressor responsible for attacks on Palestinian civilians.
Mr. Iqbal also clarified that the Board of Peace has created space for Pakistan to engage with other states on humanitarian concerns in relation to Gaza, he also rejected any claims that the move carried political or security risks. He also stressed that Pakistan’s participation did not dilute its position on the conflict.
Parliament Passes Bills and Adopts Resolution on Karachi Fire
Security concerns, however, came up during the debate, so the minister addressed them directly. Referring to last year’s military confrontation with India in May, he said Pakistan’s armed forces had demonstrated their readiness and ability, and pointed out that the country’s sovereignty was not in question.
Before disccing the foreign policy, the lawmakers also unanimously adopted a resolution regarding the fire incident at Gul Plaza in Karachi. The resolution also conveyed condolences to the families of the victims and expressed grief over the loss of life.
Farooq Sattar moved the resolution, and paid tribute to firefighters who were involved in rescue efforts while urging theSindh government to compensate the families who were affected by this incident. It also urged support for damaged businesses, while calling for more firefighting stations in Karachi, with the assistance of the federal government where needed.
Parliament then turned back to its legislative agenda. Three bills were passed by the lawmakers; the National Commission for Human Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2025, the Daanish Schools Authority Bill, 2025, and the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Bill, 2025 —and this brought the joint sitting to a close.
Source: Radio Pakistan