At the 21st Extraordinary Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers in Jeddah, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar forcefully rejected Israel’s provocative proposals concerning expanding control over Gaza and the notion of a “Greater Israel.” He described these plans as stark manifestations of a “rogue mindset” and a direct threat to regional and international peace. Dar characterized the Israeli expansionist ambitions as an annexationist agenda, urging the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation—and the broader international community—to respond with concerted, tangible action rather than mere statements.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza Deepens; Pakistan Demands Urgent Action
Dar conveyed that Gaza has become a graveyard for innocent lives and international law, accusing Israel of orchestrating a campaign of collective punishment. He cited the deaths of over 60,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, and detailed the targeted destruction of civilian infrastructure—including hospitals, schools, refugee camps, and aid convoys.
In response to this crisis, he outlined seven critical steps for international action:
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An immediate, permanent, and unconditional ceasefire
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Unhindered humanitarian access
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Enhanced support to UNRWA
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A halt to forced displacement, settlement expansion, and annexation
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Implementation of an OIC-led Gaza reconstruction framework
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Revival of a time-bound political process to achieve a two-state solution
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Accountability for war crimes and crimes against humanity
Dar emphasized that another Nakba cannot—and must not—be allowed to happen, urging OIC members to act with unity, resolve, and purpose. He further insisted that the Palestinian cause is a litmus test for the international rules-based order, with failure to uphold Palestinian rights undermining global security and legitimacy.
Solidarity, Sovereignty, and Strategic Follow‑through
Pakistan aligned itself with a statement endorsed by 31 Arab–Islamic countries, as well as the OIC, League of Arab States, and GCC—unanimously condemning Israel’s destabilizing rhetoric and territorial ambitions. Dar reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast support for Arab sovereignty and regional stability, echoing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s assertion that continued Israeli occupation will thwart peace indefinitely.
Dar concluded with a firm call to translate solidarity into strategic action. The OIC must leverage its influence, and Pakistan—as an elected UNSC member—pledged to collaborate with Arab and international partners to advance Palestinian self-determination, justice, peace, and UN membership.
