Geneva, Senator Mushahid Hussain, Leader of the Pakistan Parliamentary delegation to the annual Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) conference, vehemently criticized Israeli actions against Palestinians and called out what he perceived as the Western supporters’ “hypocrisy and double standards.” He also appealed for legislation against Islamophobia, noting its divisive and violent impacts.
According to a news release by the Senate of Pakistan, the union, consisting of 170 member parliaments, holds Pakistan in a prominent role. Pakistan serves as an elected member of the Executive Council, The Committee on Human Rights of Parliamentarians, and the Committee on Peace and Democracy.
During the conference, Senator Mushahid Hussain had the opportunity to address the General Assembly on three occasions. He also shared his perspectives at the Islamic and Asia-Pacific regional group meetings and was invited to address the Socialist International group.
In his addresses, Senator Mushahid Hussain highlighted three key points:
1. He argued that Palestinian resistance to the Israeli occupation is justifiable under international law and the UN Charter. He cited the prolonged 56-year occupation and alleged severe Israeli practices as grounds for this resistance.
2. He drew attention to what he labeled as Western “hypocrisy and double standards,” particularly from the United States. He asserted that such stances indirectly abetted Israeli actions, citing examples such as the alleged bombings in Gaza.
3. Reflecting on how Palestinians have historically been labeled by Israel, he mentioned that groups like Hamas, which even gained the endorsement of former US President Jimmy Carter, have been termed “terrorists.”
Senator Mushahid Hussain emphasized Pakistan’s stance demanding a halt to the “Gaza Genocide,” an end to the long-standing blockade of Gaza, cessation of the Israeli occupation, and the establishment of a Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.
On the topic of Islamophobia, he identified it as a major challenge to peaceful coexistence in diverse societies. He related how, due to Islamophobia, core beliefs of Muslims are under attack in the West, emphasizing the need for legislation to combat such sentiments.
Furthermore, the Senator, invited by the IPU, presented insights on the Senate of Pakistan and its work towards promoting the UN’s SDG goals. He stressed the importance of making parliaments more transparent and inclusive, seeing them as the cornerstone of democracy.
In his address to the Socialist International, he urged the group to stand against militarism, the expansion of NATO to Asia, and champion policies that prioritize the poor. Additionally, he praised China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a forward-looking endeavor for global cooperation in the current century.
Senator Mushahid Hussain also spotlighted Pakistan’s historic support for African liberation movements across various nations, outlining its deep ties and commitment to the continent’s struggles.
The Pakistan Parliamentary Delegation present at the conference comprised several senators and officials, emphasizing Pakistan’s active role in international parliamentary dialogues.