Pakistan's FM Dar Slams Israeli Rafah Restrictions: A Violation of Peace and Humanitarian Principles

The situation in Gaza remains heartbreakingly dire, and against this backdrop, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has voiced profound concern, stepping forward to unequivocally condemn Israel’s restrictive "exit-only" policy at the crucial Rafah crossing. Frankly, he sees it not just as a policy misstep, but as a direct, undeniable breach of the recently adopted United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735.

You see, the Rafah crossing isn't just a geographical point; it's a lifeline. It’s the primary gateway for desperately needed humanitarian aid into Gaza, and just as importantly, it's meant to facilitate the movement of Palestinians. Yet, Israel’s current approach, which allows people to leave but severely restricts — or outright prevents — vital supplies from entering, effectively traps a suffering population while simultaneously denying them access to food, medicine, and other essentials. It’s a policy that simply deepens the humanitarian crisis.

When Minister Dar highlights Resolution 2735, he's referring to a powerful international consensus. This resolution isn't merely a suggestion; it demands an immediate, full ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages, and crucially, unhindered access for humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza. So, when a key crossing like Rafah operates under such severe restrictions, it fundamentally undermines the very spirit and explicit provisions of this international mandate. It leaves one wondering how peace can truly take root when the basic needs of a population are held hostage.

Pakistan, as a nation, has always stood in solidarity with the Palestinian people. This latest statement from FM Dar isn't just diplomatic rhetoric; it’s a clear reaffirmation of that commitment. He passionately emphasized that the Rafah crossing must operate without any restrictions, ensuring both the free flow of humanitarian aid — a matter of life and death for countless individuals — and the unhindered movement of Palestinians, upholding their fundamental human dignity and rights.

Ultimately, the message is clear and urgent: the international community, and indeed all parties involved, must respect and implement the UNSC resolution immediately. The suffering in Gaza has gone on for far too long. Ensuring open, unrestricted access at Rafah isn't just about politics; it’s about humanity, about upholding international law, and about providing a glimmer of hope to a people who have endured unimaginable hardship. Let’s be honest, anything less is simply unacceptable.