Pakistan Warns of Expanding Middle East Crisis From Gaza to Strait of Hormuz, Urges Urgent Action

Pakistan has warned that the escalating situation across the Middle East could develop into a wider regional and global crisis, urging immediate diplomatic intervention and strict compliance with international law.

At a United Nations Security Council debate on Tuesday, Pakistan’s permanent envoy, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, emphasized that multiple conflicts in the region are deeply interconnected and require urgent de-escalation.

“The serious situation in the Middle East remains extremely volatile with multiple and interconnected crises. In this environment, strict adherence to international law, the UN Charter and Security Council resolutions, the principles of restraint, responsible conduct and diplomacy are indispensable to prevent further escalation,” the ambassador said.

He stressed that the Palestinian issue remains central to regional stability, noting that sustained international focus is essential.

“It is right that we retain the focus on Palestine. The significance of this discussion is evident from the high-level participation that we see in the Chamber,” the representative said.

Regarding Gaza, he highlighted that despite a ceasefire, the humanitarian and security situation remains extremely fragile.

“In Gaza, the ceasefire provided relief, but remains fragile with violations ongoing. More than 800 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli strikes since the announcement of the ceasefire,” the envoy said.

He further urged full implementation of the ceasefire and increased humanitarian access.

“It is essential to fully respect and consolidate the ceasefire, and ensure sustained, unhindered and scaled up humanitarian assistance,” he added.

The ambassador also raised concern over worsening conditions in the occupied West Bank, pointing to rising violence and settlement expansion.

“The rapidly deteriorating situation in the West Bank is also alarming. Escalating settler violence, continued expansion of illegal settlements and illegal legislative measures… are grave violations of international law,” he said.

Expanding the discussion to broader regional security, he warned that instability is now affecting global trade routes and economic stability.

“Broader regional tension continues to pose serious risks to international peace and security, as well as to global economic stability. The situation in the Strait of Hormuz is adversely impacting countries around the world, including Pakistan,” the ambassador noted.

He reiterated Pakistan’s support for diplomatic solutions and ongoing engagement to reduce tensions.

“At this critical juncture, restraint, dialogue and diplomacy must prevail. Pakistan remains actively engaged in advancing such diplomatic pathways,” he said.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s position, he concluded that lasting peace in the Middle East depends on resolving the Palestinian question.

“The root cause of instability in the Middle East remains the unresolved question of Palestine… the realisation of a Palestinian state… is the only pathway to a just, lasting and comprehensive peace,” the ambassador asserted.