Online Desk: Pakistan’s political leadership, convened at the President’s House on Monday for an All-Parties Conference (APC), has called for unification to confront Israel’s ongoing aggression in the Middle East, especially Palestine.

The APC, held on the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, centered around the recent escalation in the Middle East. The participants emphasised the need for decisive action by the international Muslim community.

Prominent political figures, including President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, attended the conference to voice their concerns.

The moot began with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by Pakistan’s national anthem. Federal Minister for Climate Change Sherry Rehman presented the agenda, declaring that the meeting was being held to address the attacks Israel initiated against Palestinians on October 7, 2023, marking a grim anniversary.

President Asif Ali Zardari, delivering the opening speech, condemned Israel’s actions as “genocidal.” He stated that the world community has failed to intervene effectively to stop Israel’s continuous assaults on Palestinians.

“Israel has martyred over 41,000 Palestinians in the latest round of aggression, and now it is targeting Lebanon and Syria as well. The international community is unable to stop these atrocities. This is a serious threat to regional peace, “Zardari said. Recalling Pakistan’s historic ties with the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO), he added, “We have cooperated with the PLO for decades. I met Yasser Arafat many times, and Pakistan has always stood with Palestine. Israel is increasing its violent operations.”

Zardari urged Muslim countries to use their collective power to halt Israel’s advances. “The Islamic world has enormous strength. If we do not use it now, then when?” he asked.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the participants for their solidarity on the Palestinian issue. He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and called for a ceasefire. “What Israel is doing in Palestine is unimaginable. Innocent people are being slaughtered, and world powers are silent,” said Sharif. “We will form a group of experts to visit key international capitals and deliver Pakistan’s message of solidarity with the Palestinian people.”

Sharif also thanked the political and religious leaders for putting domestic differences aside, and uniting on this issue. “Every time Pakistan faces a national or international challenge, we come together. Today is a shining example of this unity. “He concluded by stating that the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) must take the lead in resolving the crisis. “We need to act now. The Palestinian bloodshed must end.”