Islamabad: Pakistan has issued a strong condemnation of an Israeli airstrike on the Baptist Hospital in Gaza, highlighting what it describes as a violation of international humanitarian law and an affront to religious and civilian sanctity.

The Foreign Office, through its spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan, expressed grave concern over the attack, which took place on Palm Sunday, a day of religious significance for Christians. Khan stated that this incident is part of a troubling pattern of assaults on medical facilities and represents a clear breach of international standards meant to protect civilian lives and maintain humanitarian norms.

The spokesperson further elaborated on the impact of Israel’s military actions, noting that the continuous attacks have severely impaired Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure. This has left many critically ill patients without necessary medical treatment, exacerbating their suffering. The ongoing blockade on humanitarian aid compounds this situation, which Khan described as a calculated effort to extend the conflict and worsen the humanitarian crisis.

Khan called upon the international community to take decisive measures to hold Israel accountable for its actions and to safeguard Palestinian civilians from further harm. He emphasized the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities by Israeli forces.

In concluding remarks, the spokesperson reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for a two-State solution, advocating for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.