In a significant move, Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister, Anwaarul Haq Kakar, declared a ban on New Year celebrations in the country as a demonstration of solidarity with the people of Gaza. In a brief address to the nation, Kakar emphasized the need for sobriety and humility during the New Year, urging citizens to stand united with Palestinians who have been enduring a dire situation.
Citing the alarming statistics of casualties in Palestine, Kakar revealed that over 21,000 Palestinians, including approximately 9,000 children, have lost their lives since the commencement of Israeli bombardment on October 7. Condemning what he described as Israeli forces crossing “all limits of violence and injustice,” Kakar expressed the anguish of the Pakistani nation and the wider Muslim world over the ongoing massacre of innocent children and the genocide of unarmed Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.
Highlighting Pakistan’s efforts to provide support, Kakar announced that two aid packages had already been dispatched to Palestine, with a third in preparation. He disclosed ongoing discussions with Jordan and Egypt to ensure timely aid delivery and the evacuation of the injured in Gaza. Pakistan, he asserted, was committed to bringing attention to the plight of the Palestinian people on international platforms to halt the bloodshed perpetuated by Israel.
The ban on New Year celebrations in Pakistan is notable, although such festivities have traditionally been modest due to the influence of Islamic groups opposed to the revelry. Kakar emphasized that this ban, however, was specifically aimed at expressing solidarity with Gaza and underscored the nation’s commitment to addressing the crisis. As the caretaker government takes this stand, it reinforces Pakistan’s condemnation of the Israeli actions and signals its intent to actively engage in diplomatic efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people.