No change in Pakistan’s policy on Israel: Foreign Office

Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan stated that Pakistan strongly condemns Israeli attacks on Gaza, calling them a violation of ceasefire efforts. Pakistan remains committed to supporting a two-state solution and its policy on Israel has not changed. He noted that reports on social media suggest that some individuals have traveled to Israel, but the Foreign Office has no official knowledge of such visits.

During his weekly press briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan emphasized that Pakistan and the U.S. have strong relations across various sectors, and a recent meeting between the U.S. chargé d’affaires and Pakistan’s Foreign Office was part of routine diplomatic engagements.

He clarified that there is no official confirmation regarding U.S. travel restrictions on Pakistanis, and such reports are merely speculative. He further stated that the U.S. State Department has denied reports about any restrictions on Pakistani travelers. Regarding visa matters, he noted that the recent meeting was part of regular diplomatic discussions, and summoning diplomats is a routine practice, not an unusual event.

Shafqat Ali Khan highlighted that Pakistan and the U.S. share a long-standing, multi-faceted relationship that spans several decades. He also mentioned that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is currently on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, where he met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s continued support for Pakistan.

Shafqat Ali Khan reiterated that Pakistan’s missile and defense capabilities are meant for national security and deterrence. He emphasized that Pakistan’s defense system is strong and secure.

Commenting on the situation in Yemen, he expressed concern over increasing tensions due to bombings in Sana’a and retaliatory actions by Houthi rebels. He stated that Pakistan supports peace efforts led by Yemenis for a peaceful resolution.

The spokesperson urged the international community to ensure the elimination of terrorist safe havens on Afghan soil. He also provided updates on the Torkham border, stating that it was reopened yesterday, and pedestrian movement will resume today. Additionally, no border posts will be constructed on the Afghan side, which was Pakistan’s primary demand.

Regarding India, he rejected Indian leadership’s claims of a “peaceful” situation in Kashmir, stating that the reality is India is involved in the killing of thousands of Kashmiris.

The spokesperson also revealed that a fact-finding committee has been established to investigate various rumors and allegations circulating on social media.

Regarding Pakistan’s membership in the BRICS Development Bank, he clarified that its membership procedure is separate from BRICS itself. He also confirmed that Pakistan’s consulate in Spain had received information regarding the arrests of Pakistani citizens in Spain. Lastly, he stated that Pakistan urges all parties in Syria and Lebanon to exercise restraint.

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