By Muhammad Luqman
Pakistan’s government and opposition parties are on the same page to condemn the US decision to recognize the Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
“We condemn and oppose decision of United States to recognize occupied Al Quds Al Sharif as the so-called capital of Israel,” a statement issued by Prime Minister’s office said.
The decision represents a serious violation of the international law and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, the statement said. “It is a serious setback to the rule of law and international norms. It signals a severe blow to the Middle East peace process as well.”
Pakistan shares the international outrage and is deeply concerned over the implications of this decision for international peace and security, especially in the Middle East, the statement added.
The South Asian country also called upon the UN Security Council to take cognisance of this situation and take steps in accordance with the UN Charter. Pakistan urged the US to revisit its decision as soon as possible to avoid the potentially grave repercussions in the region and beyond.
Pakistan has also welcomed the announcement by Turkey to convene an Extraordinary Islamic Summit next week to discuss this serious issue..
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called Pakistan’s President Mamnoon Hussain to discuss the US President’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
During conversation, both leaders emphasized that the decision will negatively affect peace and stability in Middle East.
Pakistan’s right wing religio-political Party Jamaat-e-Islami has announced a country-wise strike on Friday. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan have also condemned the US decision.
