Sharif at UN General Assembly highlights impacts of US-Iran conflicts and peace solutions

Sharif addressed the 81st General Assembly of the United Nations (UN) in New York, USA.

Stating that the conflicts that started between the USA and Iran in February have spread throughout the Middle East, Sharif emphasized that there has been loss of life, the economy has been damaged at the global level, and there have been serious disruptions in critical sea lanes, especially the Strait of Hormuz.

Sharif reminded that in this critical period, Pakistan took rapid action and managed to bring the USA and Iran together around the same table in Islamabad.

Stating that many steps have been taken to end the conflicts, Şerif said, "We are witnessing a dangerous escalation in the conflicts. The voice of diplomacy must sound much louder and stronger amid the noise of missiles and weapons." he said.

Sharif described the Straits of Hormuz and Babulmandeb as "arteries of the global economy" and stated that these routes should not turn into conflict points and should be kept open.

Referring to the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement signed between Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, Sharif said that the agreement is not against any country and is a common commitment towards defence, stability and regional peace.

Sharif said, "As Pakistan, we chose dialogue instead of conflict, cooperation instead of oppression, peace instead of war." he said.

EMPHASIS ON THE INDEPENDENT PALESTINE STATE

Stating that the Palestinian people have been subjected to occupation, forced displacement and death for generations, Sharif emphasized that it is worrying that Israel's violence has spread to the occupied West Bank lands.

Sharif noted that a just and permanent solution lies in the establishment of an independent, sovereign and territorial Palestinian state.

Sharif also condemned Israel's ongoing attacks against Lebanon and Syria and stated that these should end immediately.

MESSAGE FROM SHERIFF TO INDIA "DO NOT USE WATER AS A WEAPON"

Sharif also touched upon the conflicts with India and said that Pakistan used its right of self-defense against India.

Regarding the Indus Waters Agreement, Sharif stated that India's decision to suspend the agreement had no legal basis and stated that water should not be "used as a weapon".

Sharif underlined that they will consider any attempt to stop, block or divert Pakistan's share of water as an "act of war".