Pakistan issued an unreserved condemnation of Israel’s airstrike that targeted Gaza’s Al-Ahli Arab Hospital, more commonly known as Baptist Hospital, leading to hundreds of civilian deaths and heightening humanitarian concerns in this volatile region.
Islamabad issued an official statement condemning the attack as inhumane and barbaric in nature and in flagrant violation of international law. They stated that targeting a medical facility filled with patients, staff and civilians displaced from their homes is “an unthinkable atrocity that cannot be justified under any circumstance”.
“Pakistanis are deeply shocked and upset at this act of terror committed by Israeli troops, and call for an impartial international investigation to fully ascertain any war crimes that have taken place,” stated an official statement from Pakistan.
On Tuesday evening, an explosion at Baptist Hospital reportedly claimed over 500 lives, marking one of the single deadliest incidents since this current wave of violence began. Although Israel claims responsibility and blames an accidental misfired Palestinian rocket as being behind it all, numerous international observers and officials in Gaza have accused Israel of conducting an airstrike attack that caused this explosion.
Pakistan’s condemnation mirrors reactions from other Muslim-majority countries and international humanitarian organizations that have denounced Israel’s military response against Hamas attacks against Israeli territory earlier this month. They all condemn an increasing civilian toll in Gaza due to Israel’s military campaign against Hamas.
Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar also took to social media, stating: “Pakistan stands with Palestinian people during this difficult time and urges an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian access.”
Pakistan has consistently demonstrated its support for Palestinian rights by advocating for a two-state solution and condemning Israeli military actions that lead to civilian casualties.
As protests erupted across Pakistan following the hospital attack, its government appealed to the international community including the UN to take swift steps to end violence and safeguard innocent civilians living in Gaza.
Tragic events at Gaza’s Baptist Hospital have given an added impetus to growing international calls for humanitarian ceasefire and accountability.