PM at UNGA demands quick end to ‘systematic slaughter’ in Gaza

New York: Terming it “systematic slaughter” and “bloodshed”, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday demanded an immediate end to the ongoing Israeli military offensive in the Gaza Strip.

He was addressing the plenary meeting for the UN General Debate as the second speaker at the 79th session of the 193-member United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

“This is not just a conflict, this is a systematic slaughter of innocent Palestinians. An assault on the very essence of human life and dignity, the blood of Gazan children stains not just the hands of the oppressors but also those complicit in prolonging this cruel conflict,” the prime minister said as he blasted Israel for its actions.

Sharif said humanity was diminished when the “endless suffering” of Palestinians was ignored.

The prime minister, who is on a five-day visit to the US mainly to address the annual session of the 193-member UN General Assembly, will also reaffirm Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to multilateralism and support for the role of the world body in fostering global peace, security, and prosperity, according to the Foreign Office.

Moreover, he will underline the importance of addressing the inequities in international economic relations and reforming the international financial architecture, besides urging the international community to take decisive measures in addressing climate change and countering the rising tide of Islamophobia.

The prime minister will also express Pakistan’s commitment, as an incoming member of the UN Security Council for the year 2025-26, to work with all UN Member States to uphold the UN Charter, prevent conflict, foster peace, and promote global prosperity.

Prior to his departure for New York, Prime Minister Shehbaz wrote on his X timeline, that he looked forward to a busy week full of engagements to take up global issues, promoting peace, development and climate action, besides representing Pakistan’s perspective on the world, advocating country’s interests and strengthening international partnerships.

During his interactions with world leaders and heads of international organisations and addresses at the high-level debates, he effectively highlighted Pakistan’s position on regional and global issues including the advancement of sustainable development agenda.