Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif declared strong support for Iran on Saturday following a series of Israeli airstrikes that targeted Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure, killing dozens and escalating fears of a regional war.
“In this time of trial, we stand by Iran in every way. We will protect Iranian interests,” Asif said in an interview with Dunya News, describing Iranians as “our brothers” whose “grief and pain are shared.”
Asif urged Muslim nations to unite against what he described as “Israeli aggression,” warning that silence and disunity could leave other Muslim countries vulnerable. “If we remain silent and disunited today, then everyone will be targeted eventually,” he said, calling for an emergency session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to respond to the crisis.
The defence minister also noted that Israel’s actions were not limited to Iran, pointing to military operations in Yemen and Palestine, and criticized the lack of a unified Muslim response. “Even non-Muslims in the West are protesting against Israel—unlike much of the Muslim world,” Asif added.
The remarks come a day after Israeli fighter jets struck multiple targets in Iran, including nuclear facilities and IRGC leadership compounds. Iran reported 78 people killed and over 320 injured, including senior military officials and nuclear scientists.
In retaliation, Iran launched dozens of missiles at Israeli cities including Tel Aviv late Saturday. Israel said its missile defense systems intercepted many, but some projectiles breached its defenses, causing damage and injuries.
Israel defended its actions, claiming intelligence indicated Iran’s nuclear program was nearing a critical stage. A spokesperson said the strikes were meant to delay what Israel believes could be an imminent nuclear threat.
The crisis has drawn sharp reactions at the UN Security Council, with countries like Russia, China, and Pakistan backing Iran and warning of a potential regional conflagration.
