Pakistan has vehemently condemned the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, expressing deep shock over what it termed a “reckless act” that coincided with the inauguration of Iran’s new president. The assassination has led to widespread mourning, with thousands participating in funeral prayers in absentia across Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Reaction
The Foreign Office of Pakistan released a statement condemning the killing, which occurred during the swearing-in ceremony of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The statement offered condolences to Haniyeh’s family and the people of Palestine, criticizing the timing of the assassination as a deliberate and provocative escalation.
READ MORE: Haniyeh Assassination: Thousands Attend Funeral Prayers in Pakistan
“We are deeply shocked by the timing of this reckless act,” the statement read. “It coincided with the inauguration of the President of Iran, an event attended by several foreign dignitaries, including the Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan.”
The Foreign Office also expressed serious concern over what it described as “growing Israeli adventurism” in the region, labeling the assassination as a dangerous escalation that undermines peace efforts.
Funeral Prayers in Absentia
In Karachi, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman led a large funeral prayer in absentia for the 62-year-old Hamas leader. Thousands gathered on New M.A. Jinnah Road, waving Palestinian flags and holding placards with Haniyeh’s image. The event was marked by a strong show of support for the Palestinian cause.
Muhammad Hussain Mehnati, head of JI’s Sindh chapter, addressed the crowd, urging the global community to reject Israel’s occupation of Palestinian lands. He praised the ongoing Palestinian resistance and criticized international support for Israel from countries like the US and UK.
“We urge the Pakistani government and other Muslim-majority countries to actively assist the oppressed Palestinians,” Mehnati said. He also announced the postponement of a planned protest against inflation and rising energy costs in favor of attending Haniyeh’s memorial.
Nationwide Observances
Similar prayers were held in Lahore, where supporters of Jamaat-e-Islami gathered to pay their respects. The event saw significant participation from women, including Dr. Hareem Khurshid, who lauded Haniyeh’s efforts in resisting Israeli military actions and safeguarding the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
“We are happy because he embraced martyrdom, but at the same time, we are sad,” Khurshid said. “Our protests and voices for Palestine will continue.”
As Pakistan and its citizens come to terms with the implications of Haniyeh’s assassination, the events have reinforced the country’s commitment to the Palestinian cause and highlighted ongoing regional tensions.
