Ayatollah Khamenei Urges Iran-Pakistan Unity to Counter Zionist Crimes in Gaza
In meeting with PM Shehbaz Sharif, Leader of the Islamic Revolution hails Pakistan’s principled stance on Palestine and calls for deeper bilateral cooperation across all spheres
Iran, PUREWILAYAH.COM - During an official visit to Tehran on Monday, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei.
The meeting, also attended by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, focused on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing urgent issues facing the Islamic world—most notably, the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
At the start of the meeting, Ayatollah Khamenei expressed satisfaction with the cessation of hostilities between Pakistan and India. He voiced hope that ongoing disputes between the two neighboring nations would be resolved peacefully.
Praise for Pakistan’s Unwavering Support for Palestine
Referring to Pakistan’s long-standing and principled position on the Palestinian cause, Ayatollah Khamenei stated:
“While in recent years there have been continuous attempts to tempt Muslim countries into establishing relations with the Zionist regime, Pakistan has never succumbed to these temptations.”
He emphasized the unique and honorable stance Pakistan has upheld, particularly amid widespread normalization efforts by other Muslim governments.
The Leader underscored that at a time when “warmongers across the globe are relentlessly pursuing conflict and division,” the Islamic Ummah’s security lies in unity and strengthened inter-Muslim relations.
Gaza: The Central Issue of the Islamic World
Ayatollah Khamenei described the Palestinian issue, and particularly the current situation in Gaza, as the most pressing concern for the Islamic world.
“Conditions in Gaza have deteriorated to such an extent that ordinary citizens in Europe and the U.S. are holding protests against their governments. And yet, in these very circumstances, regrettably, some Islamic governments stand beside the Zionist regime.”
He stressed that Iran and Pakistan, through effective joint efforts, can play a decisive and constructive role in correcting the trajectory of the Palestinian cause.
Call for Strengthened Bilateral and Regional Cooperation
Ayatollah Khamenei emphasized the deep historical ties between Iran and Pakistan, describing the relationship as consistently warm and fraternal. He cited Pakistan’s honorable position during the Sacred Defense (Iran-Iraq War) as a testament to the brotherhood between the two nations.
However, the Leader expressed dissatisfaction with the current level of bilateral cooperation, saying it remains below its potential. He called for a “comprehensive expansion of ties,” particularly in political, economic, and cultural areas.
He also stressed the need for Iran-Pakistan cooperation to reinvigorate and operationalize the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), which could serve as a key platform for regional integration and development.
PM Sharif Echoes Concern Over Gaza, Praises Iran's Regional Role
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his remarks, conveyed appreciation for Iran’s constructive role in de-escalating recent tensions between Pakistan and India. He also addressed the ongoing humanitarian disaster in Gaza:
“Regrettably, the international community has taken no effective steps to end the ongoing catastrophe in Gaza.”
Sharif concluded by expressing hope that his discussions in Tehran would open a new chapter in bilateral relations, allowing for strengthened ties across multiple sectors. (PW)
Source: Tasnim