Pakistan and GCC alignment on Gaza is an unwavering call for peace

Among the key players calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a commitment to ending the violence there are the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Side by side is Pakistan, a country that has long been standing in solidarity with the Palestinian cause, and has strongly aligned itself with the GCC for several important reasons. This alliance not only supports a peaceful resolution but also reflects Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability.

Pakistan’s stance on the Gaza conflict has always been clear: that the protection of innocent lives and the delivery of humanitarian aid must be prioritized. In fact, the Pakistani government has consistently advocated for the rights of Palestinians and the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. This vision of a two-state solution is fundamental to Pakistan’s foreign policy and aligns with the GCC’s commitment to the same cause.

The GCC countries have been vocal in calling for a Palestinian state, with full recognition under international law. Pakistan’s alignment with the GCC in this regard strengthens its position on the international stage as a staunch supporter of Palestinian rights. This shared commitment to the cause creates a powerful platform for influencing international policy and galvanizing support for the creation of a Palestinian state.

The vision of a two-state solution is fundamental to Pakistan’s foreign policy and aligns with the GCC’s commitment to the same cause.

Maryam Noureen Janjua

One of the strongest aspects of Pakistan’s foreign policy is its commitment to upholding international law, particularly in conflict situations. Pakistan has consistently condemned the violation of international humanitarian law and human rights in conflicts, especially in Gaza. The GCC’s condemnation of war crimes committed in Gaza resonates with Pakistan’s stance on international law. 

And then, there’s the broader issue of regional stability. The Middle East, including Gaza, has long been a region of geopolitical instability, with conflict and violence fueling humanitarian crises. The GCC’s proactive approach to peace in Gaza, Lebanon, and other parts of the region is a significant step toward long-term stability. By fostering dialogue and urging for ceasefires, the GCC seeks to reduce tensions, prevent further escalation, and promote a peaceful resolution to conflicts.

Pakistan, with its strategic location and deep ties to the Middle East, understands well, the importance of regional stability. and aligning with the GCC’s call for peace in Gaza is a crucial part of Islamabad’s regional policy.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached alarming levels, with tens of thousands displaced, injured, or killed. The international community cannot afford to ignore the devastating consequences of the conflict any longer. The GCC’s efforts to address the humanitarian crisis set a moral precedent for the international community to follow. The emphasis on protecting civilians, delivering aid, and ensuring that humanitarian relief reaches those in need should be adopted by all global players.

Finally, Pakistan joins the GCC in urging for Palestine’s full membership in the United Nations. This step would grant Palestine the international recognition it deserves as an independent state. Pakistan has always been a strong advocate for Palestinian self-determination, and supporting Palestine’s full UN membership is a logical step in this process. By aligning with the GCC on this issue, Pakistan contributes to the global push for recognizing Palestine’s status as a sovereign nation within the international community.

– Maryam Noureen Janjua is a student of political science. She can be reached at [email protected]