Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Saturday urged the Muslim world to awaken amid Israel’s attack on Iran.
In a passionate speech in the National Assembly, Khawaja Asif condemned the recent Israeli attacks on Iran, saying an open war is going on between the two countries.
Khawaja Asif said Iran is not only Pakistan’s neighbour, the two countries have deep historical and cultural ties.
He warned that Israel is consistently targeting Yemen, Iran, and Palestine, asserting, “If the Muslim world does not unite today, tomorrow it will be everyone’s turn.”
The minister called for an emergency meeting of the OIC, urging all Muslim countries to respond decisively to Israel.
Asif noted that voices against Israel are not only rising from the Muslim world but also from the Western public
“The conscience of the non-Muslim world has awakened, but unfortunately, Muslim leaders remain in deep sleep,” he remarked.
The defence minister also criticised India, stating, “India attacked us and paid a heavy price. Their forces were humiliated, and their global reputation suffered.”
He highlighted the strength of Pakistan’s forces and the unity of its people in overcoming a much larger enemy.
Providing details about the Israeli attacks, the minister claimed that Iranian military sites were targeted and their leadership martyred, while noting that Israel has the backing of global powers.
He urged Islamic countries with ties to Israel to sever those relationships, stating, “Israel’s hands are stained with the blood of Muslims.”
Khawaja Asif reaffirmed Pakistan’s principled stance, stating, “We have neither recognised Israel nor established relations with it.” He also addressed the issue of Pakistani-origin individuals travelling to Israel, emphasizing that Pakistan’s official position has not changed.
Reiterating solidarity with Iran, he stated, “We will protect Iranian interests and support them on all international platforms.”
Read more
Iran warns Israel against retaliation, global powers urge restraint
He referred to the incident involving Indian pilot Abhinandan, and recalled the discussions that occurred during that time, expressing regret over the political leadership’s handling of the situation, despite the Pakistan Air Force’s victory.
Asif praised the bravery of the armed forces, stating that their courage has restored public confidence in the state.
He commended the Air Force for its outstanding performance, asserting that the nation will take pride in this historic victory.
In conclusion, he acknowledged the finance minister’s commendable budget presentation, expressing optimism that while the public may still face challenges, improvements in the economy are expected in the coming months.
