Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has condemned the war against Iran as unlawful, warning that rising tensions in the Middle East could escalate into a wider global conflict.
Speaking at a gathering held in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh to mark the 47th death anniversary of PPP founder and former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, the PPP chairman expressed alarm over reported attacks, including a strike on a school in Iran that led to the deaths of children, terming it a deeply tragic development.
He criticised the ongoing aggression and said the region was already facing a volatile security situation, cautioning that the consequences were no longer limited to Iran and were being felt globally, including in Pakistan.
The former foreign minister stressed that war does not resolve disputes and instead inflicts the greatest harm on civilians.
He added that Pakistan, along with other countries, was supporting efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire and restoring stability in the region.
“We pray for all those forces, including the Pakistani government, who are working to achieve a ceasefire,” said Bilawal.
Referring to Pakistan’s defence capabilities, Bilawal said the country’s nuclear strength – envisioned by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto – serves as a strong deterrent against external threats.
“Iran, Lebanon and Syria are under attack, yet the Zionist forces cannot even dare to set their sights on Pakistan,” he said. He reiterated that his party has consistently promoted unity during challenging times and would continue to play its role in bringing the nation together.
On the domestic front, Bilawal emphasised the need for political consensus, saying federal and provincial governments had worked together to deliver public relief amid economic challenges intensified after the Middle East tensions.
He urged all stakeholders to set aside differences and cooperate in the national interest during difficult times.
Bilawal said the PPP-led Sindh government is preparing a fuel subsidy plan for private transport firms to prevent fare increases.
His statement came a day after Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah announced relief measures, including a Rs2,000 subsidy for each registered motorcyclist for April, following a massive hike in fuel prices.
The relief package also includes support for public transport and the transport sector. Registered passenger buses will receive Rs100,000 per vehicle per month, two-axle trucks Rs70,000 per month, and heavy trucks Rs80,000 per month. Intra-city buses with higher fuel consumption will also receive additional support.
Earlier, the 47th death anniversary (barsi) of former Prime Minister and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) founder, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto observed on Saturday in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh Bhutto Mausoleum.
The main ceremonies, including Quran Khawani and Fateha, were held at his mausoleum. PPP leaders, workers, and followers from Larkana Division visited the grave to lay floral wreaths and offered fateha and to paid tribute to his legacy. High-security measures, including police and Rangers deployment, are typically arranged for the events in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh Bhutto. In this connection, the PPP organised ceremonies across the country to pay tribute to Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. Quran Khawani and Fateha Khawani were held across the country for the departed soul.