Heated NA session focuses on Gaza, foreign policy, and internal rifts

ISLAMABAD: A high-stakes session of Pakistan’s National Assembly (NA) was held today, dominated by fiery speeches, walkouts, and growing political tensions.

Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar addressed the House, providing key updates on Pakistan’s international diplomatic engagements, particularly regarding the crisis in Gaza and the country’s stance on Palestine.

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Dar defended government’s Gaza stance and slammed Israeli aggression. Speaking on the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Dar criticized the global community, saying the UN, European Union, and Arab countries have failed to stop the bloodshed. He added that Israel’s aggression has turned Gaza into a “graveyard of global conscience.” Pakistan, he reiterated, has no diplomatic ties with Israel and maintains the same stance on Palestine as Quaid-e-Azam.

He revealed that a 20-point draft aimed at securing a ceasefire in Gaza, initially agreed upon by eight Islamic countries, was later unilaterally altered. Pakistan does not accept the revised draft, he clarified, adding that the prime minister had tweeted in support before knowing the document had been changed.

He said, “We will not recognise any agreement that excludes the voice of the Palestinian people.” The Prime Minister’s speech at the UN General Assembly, which addressed Kashmir, Gaza, and the Indus Water Treaty, was among the most viewed globally, according to Dar.

Dar also confirmed reports that former senator Mushtaq Ahmed was arrested by Israeli forces during the Sumud flotilla raid. He added that Pakistan is working with a European country to secure his release, asserting that no other Pakistani citizens were aboard the seized flotilla, but efforts are underway to ensure the safe return of any nationals affected.

Responding to questions over Pakistan’s new security agreement with Saudi Arabia regarding the protection of the Haramain Sharifeen (holy sites), Dar said the deal had been under negotiation since the PDM government and was finalized under the current leadership. “We are honored that Allah has chosen Pakistan as a protector of the holy sites,” he stated, calling the agreement “critical and strategic.”

He added that Pakistan will always stand with Saudi Arabia and highlighted that 40 foreign ministers will visit Islamabad in October for further strategic dialogue. “If more countries join this agreement, it could become a Muslim NATO,” he suggested, expressing hopes that Pakistan will lead the Muslim world not just in security, but in economic strength.

INTERNAL DISCORD: PPP WALKOUT AND DEMANDS FOR CLARITY

Tensions flared in the Assembly as Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) lawmakers staged a walkout over statements made by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Maryam Nawaz and alleged lack of consultation. PPP’s Naveed Qamar said the party will not rejoin proceedings until their concerns are addressed.

NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq urged the government to initiate dialogue with the PPP and also address the concerns of protesting journalists, who walked out over a separate incident.

PTI BRINGS CRITICISM TO THE SESSION

Former NA speaker Asad Qaiser lambasted the government, questioning why Parliament was not briefed before the prime minister appeared to endorse Trump’s ceasefire plan. “The Prime Minister bowed Pakistan’s head in shame,” Qaiser said, demanding that Parliament be fully informed before any foreign agreements are signed. He also condemned the arrest of 450 activists from the Gaza aid flotilla.

SHAMA JUNEJO CONTROVERSY SPARKS MORE QUESTIONS

Clarifying a brewing controversy, Dar denied that Shama Junejo, allegedly involved in writing the prime minister’s speech, was included in any official delegation documents. “Her name was not in any letter I signed,” he said, blaming the mix-up on speechwriting staff.

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The session, chaired by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, was eventually adjourned until 5 PM Monday, with multiple unresolved issues still looming, including PPP’s grievances, the Gaza ceasefire stance, and concerns over transparency in foreign policy.

Dar concluded by urging unity, “There are no issues that cannot be resolved through dialogue. Accusations benefit no one.”