By Islamuddin Sajid
ISLAMABAD (AA) — Pakistan on Saturday denounced recent Israeli statements signaling an intention to forcibly displace Palestinians, saying such actions violate international law and aim to sabotage regional peace efforts.
The Foreign Ministry said in a statement that “forced displacement and continued expansion of illegal settlements reflect Israel’s disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law. We call upon the international community to play its role in addressing the humanitarian plight of the civilians and to hold Israel accountable.”
The ministry did not cite specific remarks but was apparently referring to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent comments about moving Palestinians from Gaza through the Rafah crossing on Egypt’s border.
Egypt, Qatar and Jordan also rejected Netanyahu’s comments on Friday, warning against any attempt to expel Palestinians from their land.
Islamabad reaffirmed its “unwavering support” for the Palestinian people and their struggle for self-determination, reiterating its backing for a sovereign, independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
The genocide in Gaza entered day 700 on Friday, with Israel having killed at least 64,300 Palestinians. The enclave is facing famine as the military campaign continues.
Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war on the enclave.