UNITED NATIONS: In the midst of the harrowing turmoil in the Palestinian territories, a Pakistani diplomat has stood on the world stage to pay profound tributes to the unsung heroes of UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees).
Ambassador Munir Akram, the voice of compassion and reason, has highlighted the courage and dedication of UNRWA’s staff members who are tirelessly serving Palestinian refugees in the face of Israel’s relentless campaign of bombardment, air strikes, and ground invasion.
Ambassador Akram’s heartfelt admiration for the remarkable work of UNRWA and its Commissioner-General, Phillipe Lazzarini, reverberated through the General Assembly’s Fourth Committee, which deals with special political and decolonization issues. In a world often marred by violence and conflict, his words shone as a beacon of hope and humanity.
UNRWA, an organization that has been a lifeline for countless Palestinian refugees, has tragically lost over 70 of its staff members as they bravely serve the besieged people of Gaza, where indiscriminate bombings have left the enclave in ruins.
Ambassador Akram went a step further, rightfully designating UNRWA workers as “martyrs.” He vehemently rejected the baseless allegations made by the Israeli delegate, who falsely claimed that UNRWA was providing shelter to Hamas fighters in its facilities. He expressed utter contempt for such unfounded accusations, emphasizing that they only serve to distort the truth and perpetuate a cycle of violence.
The diplomat made a resolute commitment on behalf of Pakistan, pledging continued support for UNRWA until the Palestinian refugees are able to return to their homeland. This support is contingent on the establishment of an independent and viable contiguous state for Palestinians, with Al-Aqsa as its capital. Ambassador Akram’s words carry a powerful message of solidarity and unwavering support for the Palestinian cause.
Despite the overwhelming call for a sustained humanitarian ceasefire by the UN General Assembly, Israel continues its brutal air strikes and ground invasion in the Palestinian territories. Ambassador Akram did not mince words, urging the world not to mask the grim reality. He boldly stated that war crimes and crimes against humanity are being committed with impunity, while those who oppose a ceasefire bear responsibility for the ongoing loss of innocent lives.
In the face of such adversity, Ambassador Akram made a solemn promise: “We will not forget.” He acknowledged the voices within the UN that have labeled Israel’s actions as genocide. He highlighted the staggering toll of the conflict, with 9,000 lives lost and 22,000 people injured, the majority of whom are women and children. He condemned the cowardly aggression that has caused immense suffering.
Pakistan, a staunch advocate for the Palestinian people, pledged to provide whatever support it can to alleviate the suffering of the besieged Palestinians. Efforts are being made to send essential supplies through Egypt, a friendly nation, with the hope of bringing some relief to those in need.
Looking towards the future, Ambassador Akram called for the Secretary-General to honor the martyrs of UNRWA, much like fallen UN peacekeepers are remembered. He issued a compelling plea for an unconditional ceasefire and emphasized the need for a repository of the crimes committed in this conflict, with an unwavering commitment to seeking accountability.
Ambassador Munir Akram’s unwavering stance on the Palestinian crisis serves as a testament to Pakistan’s commitment to justice and peace. His poignant words, delivered on the global stage, echo the cries of those who have suffered, reminding the world that the plight of the Palestinian people must not be forgotten. The human spirit’s resilience and unwavering support for justice and accountability are exemplified in Ambassador Akram’s resolute statements.
