JEDDAH: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday sharply criticised Israel’s latest steps in the occupied West Bank, accusing it of pursuing an expansion-driven policy that disregards international law and humanitarian principles.
Speaking at a meeting of the executive committee of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Jeddah, Dar referred to Israel’s recent decision to designate extensive areas of the West Bank as “state property” – a move seen as the first of its kind since the 1967 occupation.
He described the measure as unlawful and reflective of an annexationist agenda, warning that such actions undermine prospects for a durable and just peace in the Middle East.
Dar also pointed to what he termed repeated violations of ceasefire arrangements, expansion of settlements, and attempts to alter the demographic and legal status of the occupied territory.
Recalling discussions held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in September 2025, Dar said leaders and foreign ministers from eight Islamic countries, including Pakistan, had engaged with the US president to push for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and a broader peace initiative.
According to him, assurances were given at the time that annexation of the West Bank would not proceed. However, he told the OIC forum that developments on the ground suggested otherwise, with settlement activities continuing despite diplomatic commitments.
He argued that such steps breach international law, the UN Charter and relevant Security Council resolutions, and risk further destabilising the region.
Dar urged the global community to take meaningful action to halt what he called violations by Israel and to uphold previously made commitments.
He emphasised the need for the immediate reversal of measures aimed at consolidating control over occupied Palestinian land, including the West Bank.
The minister also called for the protection of Islamic holy sites, particularly the Al-Aqsa Mosque, an end to forced displacement, and the cessation of any demographic changes in the territory.
He stressed the importance of rebuilding Gaza under full Palestinian ownership and ensuring accountability for alleged violations of international humanitarian law.
Referring to recent remarks by US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee that appeared to support Israeli territorial expansion, Dar described such statements as irresponsible and damaging to diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the conflict.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Arab nations in safeguarding their sovereignty and reiterated Islamabad’s longstanding backing of the Palestinian cause.
Drawing a parallel with Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), he urged the OIC to intensify efforts toward resolving both disputes in line with international law and UN resolutions.
Dar concluded by stating that Pakistan would continue working with fellow OIC members to pursue a sustainable ceasefire, advance reconstruction in Gaza, and promote a credible, time-bound political process leading to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
