Pakistan strongly condemned the deadly Sydney Bondi Beach attack, standing in solidarity with Australia against terrorism. Two gunmen killed 11 people during a Hanukkah gathering. Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad emphasized Pakistan’s firm rejection of all forms of terrorism at the UN Security Council.
The envoy reiterated Pakistan’s support for the Gaza ceasefire framework, praising mediation by the US, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey. Resolution 2803 calls for adherence to the ceasefire, hostage exchanges, and humanitarian aid access. Pakistan stressed urgent compliance to stop ongoing bloodshed and aid reconstruction in Gaza.
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Ahmad warned the Council about Israel’s settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank, citing over 6,300 new housing units. He said these activities violate international law, undermine the two-state solution, and threaten peace. Pakistan urged an immediate halt to settlement activity and full implementation of Resolution 2803.
The envoy called for accountability and a time-bound political process leading to an independent Palestinian state on pre-1967 borders. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for Palestinian rights, justice, and statehood. Humanitarian relief, reconstruction without annexation, and adherence to international law were emphasized as essential.
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Separately, Pakistan highlighted the global digital divide at a WSIS+20 UN meeting. Aligning with the Group of 77 and China, it urged technology transfer, skills development, and inclusive AI governance. Domestically, Pakistan is advancing digital transformation through the Digital Nation Pakistan Act and National AI Policy, aiming to expand connectivity and ethical AI development.