Washington (TDI): Pakistan on Tuesday aligned with several members of the United Nations Security Council to strongly oppose Israel’s settlement expansion and any move toward annexing parts of the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
In a joint stance, eight countries warned that such actions violate international law and further diminish prospects for a lasting peace in the region.
At a press stakeout, Pakistan’s UN envoy Asim Iftikhar Ahmad delivered part of the collective statement on behalf of Bahrain, Denmark, France, Greece, Latvia, Somalia, the United Kingdom, and Pakistan.
“Guided by the UN Charter and relevant Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 2334, we reaffirm our firm opposition to the annexation of any part of the Occupied Palestinian Territory and to the forcible displacement of the Palestinian people,” the statement said.
The group stressed that attempts to alter the demographic composition and status of territories occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, are in breach of international law and undermine ongoing peace efforts. They also reiterated the council’s demand that Israel immediately halt all settlement activity.
Describing settlements as illegal, the members expressed concern over escalating violence, including attacks by settlers and the killing of Palestinian civilians. They called for accountability and an immediate end to such actions.
The statement also highlighted the worsening humanitarian and economic situation in Palestinian territories, attributing it to movement restrictions and the withholding of tax revenues. Members urged urgent steps to address these challenges.
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Separately, Israel’s ambassador to the UN Danny Dannon spoke ahead of the scheduled briefing, stating that Israel would continue its military operations until its objectives are achieved. He also indicated that Israel would not participate in any Iran-related peace efforts at this stage.
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Council members reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the historic status quo at holy sites in Jerusalem and reiterated support for a two-state solution based on international law, relevant UN resolutions, and longstanding peace frameworks.
