Muslim and Christian leaders on Thursday came together to condemn the war crimes in Gaza and called for an immediate halt of Israeli atrocities in Palestine.
Speaking at a press conference at Fatima Church, they called for the United Nations to take a leadership role in easing the ongoing tension between Palestine and Israel.
The Muslims and Christian leaders asserted that the entire Pakistani nation, regardless of religious affiliation, stands united in demanding an end to the ongoing atrocities against the innocent people of Gaza.
On this occasion, Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Religious Harmony and Pakistani Diaspora in the Middle East and Muslim Countries, Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi, expressed gratitude to Pope Francis for addressing concerns about the deteriorating situation in Gaza.
Ashrafi who is also the chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council, expressed the need for an immediate cessation of the war, advocating for the establishment of an independent and sovereign state of Palestine with Al-Quds as its capital.
Emphasizing the significance of Palestine and Kashmir as foundational to the Muslim Ummah, he denounced attempts by certain elements to sow division in Pakistan and the Muslim world on these critical issues.
Ashrafi categorically stated that rumors regarding the acceptance of Israel were baseless, reaffirming the stance that Pakistan views Israel as an occupier and usurper.
Bishop Sarfraz, in the meantime, denounced the humanitarian plight in Gaza, emphasizing that the Gaza Strip, revered as a land of Prophets, should be liberated from such inhumane acts.
He advocated for interfaith dialogue among believers of various faiths, including Muslims, Christians, and peace-loving Jews, to foster peace and tranquility in the region.
Bishop Sarfraz highlighted Israel’s assaults not only on Muslims and their facilities but also on sites belonging to the Christian community, including churches and hospitals.
Vice President Allama Arif Wahidi of the Shia Ulama Council expressed that the events unfolding in Gaza amounted to a profound insult to humanity. He called upon believers of every religion to unite their voices in denouncing oppression and violence in Gaza.
Wahidi appealed to the international community to exert pressure on Israel, urging the cessation of its war crimes in Gaza, cautioning that the repercussions could extend beyond the region and impact the entire world.
Concluding the press conference, Ashrafi announced that Friday sermons would focus on advocating for justice for the innocent people of Palestine and promoting peace for Palestinian children. Additionally, peaceful rallies were scheduled to be conducted nationwide, he maintained.
