DR Sher Ali Khan of Al-Hamd Islamic University, Islamabad, is holding a conference on April 11 on the peace dialogue between the United States and Iran, which has been organized by the Government of Pakistan. Prominent writers and intellectuals will participate and discuss the issue. It is a much-needed webinar that will analyze the situation in the context of ground realities.
We must not forget that Israel is a fascist state. The Zionists are anti-Christianity and anti-Islam. They seek a “Greater Israel” and consider the genocide of Muslims as part of their ideology. After targeting Muslims, Christians may be next. The Christian world must recognize this harsh reality and should not turn a blind eye.
Benjamin Netanyahu is a racist and a war criminal. He is influencing American President Donald Trump, who eagerly aspires to be awarded the Nobel Prize. It is indeed a privilege to receive this internationally recognized award, but it has certain prerequisites. The foremost is to be a champion of peace and humanity. If one supports the aggression of Benjamin Netanyahu, can he truly be considered a genuine aspirant for the Peace Prize? President Trump may deserve the Nobel Prize if he succeeds in restraining the fast-moving and aggressive policies of Benjamin Netanyahu. As Pakistanis, we appreciate his role in helping prevent a potential atomic conflict between India and Pakistan. Narendra Modi, like Benjamin Netanyahu, exhibits extremist tendencies. As President Trump has previously snubbed Modi and thwarted hostile designs against Pakistan, it is expected that he will also pressure Netanyahu to halt war crimes.
Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between America and Iran is highly positive. One important point should be included in the agenda: that America will not support Israeli aggression in the region. After the announcement of peace talks between America and Iran, what justification remained for Israeli airstrikes on civilians in Lebanon, in which more than 200 people were killed? Israel appears to be sabotaging the peace process with destructive intentions.
There can be no lasting peace in the Middle East until Israel respects the UN resolution on the two-state solution: the State of Israel and the State of Palestine. As a superpower, America has a legal and moral obligation to ensure the implementation of UN resolutions rather than supporting policies that escalate conflict under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Pakistan’s stance on this issue is clear and firm. It seeks peace and stability in the region and is willing to mediate between the concerned parties. This is a significant diplomatic achievement and must be appreciated. It is not a matter of any political party or government; rather, it concerns national interest and integrity, which rise above political affiliations.
We must acknowledge the tireless and sincere efforts of President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, who have used their influence to prevent war and promote an amicable resolution to the conflict. This achievement is commendable and belongs to the entire nation. It is an honour for all Pakistanis and we sincerely pray that this meeting succeeds and that the noble mission of peace is accomplished.
—The writer is a contributing columnist, based in New York.
