Saudi FM Criticizes Insufficient International Efforts to Ceasefire in Gaza

Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, during a joint press conference with his Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar in Islamabad, criticized the international community's efforts to establish a ceasefire in Gaza as "wholly insufficient."

Speaking at the Pakistani Foreign Ministry, Minister Farhan highlighted the dire situation in Gaza, where over 33,000 civilian deaths have been reported. He expressed concerns about the possibility of a famine in the region, exacerbated by the inadequate delivery of humanitarian aid.

Minister Farhan called on the international community to uphold its responsibilities and avoid double standards in addressing the crisis in Gaza, especially in light of recent violations of United Nations Security Council resolutions by the Israeli occupation.

"The priority for everyone must be to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, resolve disputes through dialogue, not force," Farhan stated, emphasizing Saudi Arabia's commitment to exert all efforts towards this end.

He also affirmed the strong cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, noting their joint belief in enhancing collaboration to face global challenges. "The Kingdom and Pakistan are moving towards boosting cooperation across various fields through governmental initiatives and supporting investment opportunities, adding significant value to both nations," he remarked.

The ongoing bloody conflict in Gaza has been raging for 193 days, with the death toll rising to 33,843 and injuries numbering 76,575, predominantly among children and women. According to the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, over ten thousand women have died since the conflict began on October 7, including six thousand mothers, resulting in 19,000 orphaned children.

Minister Farhan’s remarks underscore the urgency and gravity of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the need for a concerted and effective international response.