Pakistan condemns Israeli PM’s 'thoughtless, irresponsible' statement

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Sunday strongly condemned in unequivocal terms the recent statement by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggesting that the Palestinian people should establish a state in Saudi Arabia, the Foreign Office said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar said that Benjamin Netanyahu’s remark is irresponsible, provocative and thoughtless, which is not only deeply offensive but also undermines and disregards the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people to self-determination and an independent State on their own historical and legitimate territory.

The deputy prime minister said that Pakistan stands in solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and commends its steadfast support for the Palestinian people and their just cause.

“Any attempt to undermine Saudi Arabia’s unwavering position and misrepresention of its commitment to the Palestinian cause are deeply regrettable,” he added.

Ishaq Dar said Pakistan firmly believes that the Palestinian people have an inalienable right to establish an independent and sovereign state based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al Quds Al Sharif as its capital.

“Any proposal that seeks to displace or relocate the Palestinian people from their ancestral homeland is unacceptable and constitutes a blatant violation of international law, United Nations resolutions and the principles of justice and fairness. “

The deputy prime minister reiterates Pakistan’s unflinching support for the Palestinian cause and said that the country will continue to work closely with Saudi Arabia and other members of the international community to advocate for the rights of the Palestinian people and to achieve a just, comprehensive and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue.

“Pakistan urges the international community to denounce this provocative remark and hold Israel accountable for its continued attempts to undermine the peace process,” Ishaq Dar demanded.