Pakistan Declares Ban On New Year Festivities To Expresses Solidarity With Gaza, Condemns 'Violence By Israeli Forces'

Pakistan's interim Prime Minister, Anwaarul Haq Kakar, has taken a decisive step by instituting a ban on New Year celebrations throughout the country.

The move is a symbolic expression of solidarity with the people in Gaza and a demonstration of support for the ongoing 'struggles' they face.

As reported by Indian Express, During a brief national address, Kakar called upon citizens to observe the occasion with sobriety and humility, emphasising the collective responsibility to unite in empathy for the Palestinians.

Kakar condemned what he described as the excessive use of violence and injustice by Israeli forces, resulting in a significant loss of life.

He highlighted that over 21,000 Palestinians have lost their lives, with approximately 9,000 children among the casualties since the Israeli bombardment began on 7 October.

The interim Prime Minister expressed deep concern over the situation, stating that the Israeli forces had "crossed all limits of violence and injustice."

In his address, Kakar outlined Pakistan's humanitarian efforts to alleviate the suffering in Gaza.

He mentioned that two aid packages had already been dispatched to Palestine, with preparations underway for a third package.

Furthermore, Kakar disclosed that Pakistan is engaged in discussions with Jordan and Egypt to provide timely aid to Palestine and to facilitate the evacuation of the injured from Gaza.

It is noteworthy that New Year celebrations in Pakistan have traditionally been, influenced by the presence of Islamic groups that discourage elaborate festivities, sometimes even resorting to force to curtail such events.

The ban imposed by Kakar aligns with this trend but takes on added significance this year as a powerful gesture of solidarity with the people of Gaza in their time of adversity.