Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space. They are published in good faith with a view to enlightening all the stakeholders. However, the contents of these writings may not necessarily match the views of the newspaper.
US veto
The US has consecutively vetoed two UN resolutions calling for humanitarian pause in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. This was expected. President Biden had categorically stated, since day one, that the US is standing behind Israel like a rock. He said, “The U.S. would provide every possible assistance, both military and otherwise, to Israel in its war against Hamas. He cogently said, “We’ll make sure Israel has what it needs to take care of itself.”
Consecutively vetoing two UN resolutions calling for humanitarian pause in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict clearly indicates that the US is not too keen in seeing immediate end to this devastating conflict. Where will this war lead the world to, could be anybody’s guess.
FAZAL ELAHI
Islamabad
Gaza & cricket
In Gaza, the lives of innocent Palestinian men, women, children and the youth hang in the balance as their homes and properties continue to be relentlessly bombarded by Israel. Over 1,000 Palestinians find themselves buried under the rubble of destroyed buildings and a grim picture is painted by a United Nations report – the very concept of human life is dwindling in this region. Shockingly, the toll stands at approximately 3,000 Palestinians who have lost their lives with an additional 11,000 injured and over a million forced to flee from their homes.
In this dire situation, basic necessities such as food, water and electricity have become increasingly scarce, pushing the people of Gaza to the brink. Meanwhile, the United States persists in delivering military personnel and equipment to Israel, with another US warship slated to arrive shortly, cementing their support for the Zionist state.
It’s not just the United States, allies and other imperialist powers are also extending their backing to Israel. What’s even more concerning is that Israel is arming its own Zionist citizens, sparking fear of a potential massacre of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza.
The WHO has sounded the alarm about the deteriorating conditions in Gaza. As food, fuel, water and electricity are limited to just 24 hours, Israel has remained steadfast in its refusal to restore these critical supplies. Consequently, a profound human tragedy is unfolding before our eyes and it’s imperative for the entire world to step in and take action to prevent a looming catastrophe.
The question arises: why have global organizations dedicated to human security seemingly fallen into a slumber? Why have they not directed their focus towards the dire situation in Gaza? Instead, the world’s attention appears to be fixated on events like the Cricket World Cup. This presents a unique opportunity for Muslim countries to take a stand and demonstrate their solidarity with Gaza. By recalling their cricket teams in protest, they can symbolize a united and unyielding front against the injustices unfolding in this beleaguered region, reinforcing their commitment to building a fortified and resilient nation.
AHSAN UL HAQ SHAIKH
Chunian
Economic agenda
Pakistan’s stability increasingly depends on the outcome of an ever-worsening economic crisis. It is experiencing one of the worst inflation rates in its history. Pakistan’s risk of defaulting for now, but it needs the IMF and foreign sustainable economic growth at 0.5 has receded.
More help from benefactors for recovery. Its low economic per cent, coupled with 29.6 percent inflation and 8 per cent unemployment. More than one million jobs have been lost in recent months due to economic slowdown. The government of Pakistan needs to bring big changes in its global economy.
FARYAL FIDA
Via email
Privatisation of schools
The announcement of privatizing over 1000 government schools and the puzzling amendments to pension rules by Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi have sparked protests among government teachers across different cities in the province.
In response, Punjab Police cracked down on the protestors, arresting over 100 individuals and resorting to tear gas in some instances. This ill-advised decision threatens to further cripple the already struggling education sector, riddled with numerous challenges.
It’s crucial to note that this policy not only incites resentment among government teachers but also jeopardizes the quality of education. Moreover, this move will disproportionately affect 40% of the state’s population, primarily comprising the underprivileged, who cannot afford the steep fees of private institutions.
Additionally, the government’s decision to amend pension rules raises significant objections. Implementing such changes in an already dire economic situation makes it nearly impossible for government teachers to make ends meet with their meagre salaries. In a nutshell, it would have been prudent if the government had sat down with protestors to seek a viable way forward.
SAIF UR REHMAN
Lahore
Box letter
Polio eradication
A current example of the ongoing challenge in the global crusade against polio is the detection of Wild Polio Virus Type 1 (WPV1) in environmental samples from various cities in Pakistan, including Punjab, Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). This concerning development highlights the urgent need to raise children’s immunity and vaccinate them, not just in Pakistan but also in Afghanistan, which shares a border. These are the only two countries affected by WPV1, where cooperation is crucial to eradicate this debilitating disease. It is essential to raise awareness of the importance of polio immunization. The collaboration between Pakistan and Afghanistan is of utmost importance. To address this problem, comprehensive coordinated action is necessary, emphasizing the significance of immunizing young individuals, raising public awareness and promoting international cooperation. Thus, the complete eradication of this devastating disease remains the goal, and these recent findings are a strong reminder of the work that still needs to be done.
AMREEN NOOR
Karachi
