RAWALPINDI: The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Asim Munir, stated on Tuesday that the Palestinian people enjoy full diplomatic, moral, and political support from the Pakistani nation. He also pledged to support the end of the “unlawful occupation of their territories.” This declaration comes in the midst of Israel imposing a “total siege” to restrict the flow of food and fuel to Gaza, following a surprise Hamas offensive on October 7.
In response to these events, Israeli forces conducted air and artillery strikes that resulted in the destruction of entire neighborhoods, hospitals, and schools in Gaza. Authorities report that over 2,800 people, including approximately a quarter of them being children, have lost their lives in the Israeli bombing, and nearly 11,000 wounded individuals are in hospitals facing a severe shortage of supplies.
A day prior to this statement, Pakistan’s Foreign Office announced that Pakistan was sending humanitarian aid to Gaza on an urgent basis and was coordinating with United Nations agencies for this purpose.
The Inter Service Public Relations (ISPR) issued a press release stating that the Israel-Hamas conflict was discussed during the 260th Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) held at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi. The statement from the military’s media wing quoted COAS Munir, affirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s diplomatic, moral, and political stance and their quest for a just resolution of the Palestinian issue and an end to the unlawful occupation of their territories and sacred places.
The ISPR further noted that the forum at the CCC paid tribute to the sacrifices made by security and law enforcement forces in the defense of Pakistan against terrorism. The participants resolved to deal resolutely with all terrorists, their enablers, and supporters who aim to destabilize the country.
The participants were also briefed on the prevailing geo-strategic environment, national security challenges, and Pakistan’s strategy in response to evolving threats. The forum reiterated the Pakistan Army’s commitment to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity against both direct and indirect threats.
Additionally, the participants expressed their full support for the government’s strategic initiatives aimed at revitalizing the economy and enhancing the well-being of the people of Pakistan. They conducted a comprehensive review of actions against illegal economic activities and affirmed their commitment to continue supporting the government and law enforcement agencies in taking lawful measures against such practices.
The forum also endorsed the government’s decision to repatriate and deport all illegal foreigners starting from November 1. The COAS emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards of professionalism and motivation during operations and achieving excellence in the training of military formations.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)