Pakistan has strongly condemned the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, expressing deep shock over the “reckless act” coinciding with Iran’s new president’s inauguration. The killing has led to widespread mourning, with thousands attending funeral prayers in absentia across Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Reaction
The Foreign Office of Pakistan issued a statement denouncing the assassination, which occurred during Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s swearing-in ceremony. Condolences were offered to Haniyeh’s family and the Palestinian people, criticizing the timing of the act as provocative. The statement highlighted concerns over increasing Israeli aggression, viewing it as a threat to peace efforts.
Funeral Prayers in Absentia
In Karachi, Jamaat-e-Islami leader Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman led a large absentia funeral prayer for Haniyeh. Thousands gathered on New M.A. Jinnah Road, waving Palestinian flags and holding placards with Haniyeh’s image. JI’s Sindh chapter head, Muhammad Hussain Mehnati, called for global rejection of Israeli occupation and urged Pakistani and Muslim-majority countries to support Palestinians. He also postponed a protest against inflation to attend the memorial.
Nationwide Observances
Similar prayers were held in Lahore, with Jamaat-e-Islami supporters, including women like Dr. Hareem Khurshid, praising Haniyeh’s resistance efforts and pledging continued support for Palestine. The assassination has underscored Pakistan’s dedication to the Palestinian cause amidst ongoing regional tensions.
