Islamabad: Pakistan has called for immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire, full Israeli withdrawal, the release of hostages, and unimpeded humanitarian access in Gaza.

According to Radio Pakistan, speaking at the UN Security Council briefing on the Middle East, including the Question of Palestine (Israeli Hostages in Gaza), Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad stated that the taking of hostages is a violation of international law and is unacceptable. He emphasized that hostages must be released.

Ambassador Ahmad highlighted the necessity for the complete implementation of Security Council Resolution 2735, which proposes a feasible roadmap to end hostilities and deliver crucial aid. He cited the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, which warned of the worst-case scenario of famine unfolding in the Gaza Strip. UNICEF described the situation as a perfect storm of suffering for children, while the UN Secretary-General warned of a "humanitarian catastrophe of epic proportions."

The Ambassador stated that the consequences are severe, with at least 175 Palestinians, including 93 children, dying of starvation. He urged action to end what he described as Israel's brutal and illegal war and the immense suffering of the Palestinian people.