Pakistan Demands Israeli Withdrawal from Lebanon, Syrian Territories, and Full Freedom for UN Peacekeepers

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has urged Israel to withdraw from occupied Lebanese and Syrian territories, including the Golan Heights, and allow United Nations peacekeeping forces to operate without restrictions in the region. The call was made by Pakistan's permanent representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Munir Akram, during a UN Security Council meeting, as reported by Pakistani state media on Saturday.

The remarks came after a detailed briefing by senior UN peacekeeping officials on the escalating challenges faced by "blue helmets" operating in Lebanon and Syria. Ambassador Akram underscored the importance of ensuring Israel's compliance with international agreements and called for strengthening the role of UN peacekeeping forces to maintain stability in the conflict-hit region.

Condemnation of Israeli Actions in Syria and Lebanon

Ambassador Akram expressed “deep concern” over the increasing threats faced by UN peacekeepers, specifically the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF). The envoy condemned Israel’s alleged “aggression” in Syrian territories, including its incursions into areas designated as separation zones under the 1974 Disengagement Agreement between Israel and Syria.

“That agreement remains binding and must be upheld without exception,” Akram said. He emphasized that no military presence other than UNDOF should be allowed in these areas, stressing that unilateral actions undermining this agreement are “unacceptable.”

The ambassador also expressed alarm over continuing Israeli violations of the November 26 ceasefire agreement with Lebanon, citing airspace incursions, airstrikes, and restrictions on UNIFIL’s movement.

“Israel must adhere to the 60-day timeline stipulated in the arrangement and complete its withdrawal from southern Lebanon,” Akram urged, adding that any security concerns must be reported through appropriate UN mechanisms rather than unilateral measures.

Importance of UN Peacekeeping Operations

The Pakistani envoy praised the pivotal role of UNIFIL in ensuring stability in southern Lebanon and called for unrestricted freedom of movement for the force. He stressed the importance of full deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) alongside UNIFIL to maintain security and stability in the region.

During the Security Council meeting, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, and Maj. Gen. Patrick Gauchat, head of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), briefed the council on recent developments in Lebanon and Syria. Lacroix and other officials, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, recently visited the UNIFIL area of operations near the Blue Line, the border of separation between Lebanon and Israel.

Ambassador Akram called for enhanced resources and modern technologies to boost the operational efficiency of UN peacekeepers. He also emphasized that those who target UN peacekeepers must be held accountable.

A Call for Regional Stability and the Two-State Solution

In addition to addressing the situation in Lebanon and Syria, Ambassador Akram expressed hope for the success of the recently announced Gaza ceasefire.

“We hope this ceasefire is real and will serve as the first step toward a comprehensive solution, including the two-state solution and the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state,” Akram stated.

Pakistan reiterated its long-standing position in support of a free and independent Palestinian state based on internationally recognized parameters. Islamabad, which does not recognize Israel, has consistently called for a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Pakistan’s Humanitarian Aid to Gaza and Lebanon

Pakistan has demonstrated its solidarity with the people of Gaza and Lebanon by dispatching several relief consignments to the war-affected regions. The government has also established the "Prime Minister’s Relief Fund for Gaza and Lebanon," encouraging public donations to assist those impacted by the conflict.

Key Highlights from the Meeting

• Pakistan calls for Israel’s immediate withdrawal from occupied Lebanese and Syrian territories, including the Golan Heights.
• Ambassador Munir Akram stresses the importance of UNIFIL and UNDOF operations in ensuring regional stability.
• Strong condemnation of Israeli airstrikes and restrictions on peacekeepers.
• Pakistan supports a two-state solution and the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state.
• Islamabad continues to provide humanitarian relief for Gaza and Lebanon amid the ongoing crisis.