UN, 13 October, 2026 (Kamran Raja): Pakistan has strongly condemned Israeli military operations in Syria, describing them as violations of international law and Syria’s sovereignty, and called on Israel to withdraw from all occupied Syrian territories and fully respect the 1974 disengagement agreement. Speaking at a United Nations Security Council briefing on the humanitarian and political situation in Syria, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, said Israeli actions were undermining prospects for peace and stability in the region. He emphasised that the occupied Syrian Golan Heights remained an integral part of Syria under international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolutions 338 and 497. Ambassador Jadoon reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Syria’s political transition, national reconciliation and economic recovery, stressing the importance of preserving the country’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity. He welcomed the Syrian government’s efforts to advance an inclusive political process and noted progress in negotiations with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The Pakistani envoy stressed that disputes in Sweida and other parts of Syria should be resolved through dialogue and peaceful means. He said sustained international cooperation and humanitarian assistance were essential to rebuilding Syria, revitalising its economy and addressing the basic needs of its people. He further observed that easing sanctions, attracting investment and expanding regional and international economic partnerships could contribute to the country’s recovery.
Jadoon also underscored the need for continued vigilance against the Islamic State (IS) and other terrorist organisations, including foreign fighters, and called for strengthening Syria’s security institutions. International concern has also increased over Israel’s military activities in Syria. Last month, a United Nations commission investigating the situation in the country expressed concern over Israeli operations on Syrian territory, warning that certain actions, including the detention of civilians, could amount to war crimes. In August, eight Israeli airstrikes were also reported at a military base in northwestern Syria. Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government, Israel occupied additional areas in southwestern Syria and targeted heavy weapons and military equipment belonging to the Syrian army. Pakistan reiterated its call for respect for international law, Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a peaceful resolution of the ongoing crisis.