*** Israel Slams Pakistan Minister’s Remarks, Questions Role in Middle East Mediation | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Israel Slams Pakistan Minister’s Remarks, Questions Role in Middle East Mediation

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Tel Aviv: Israel has sharply criticised comments made by Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, describing them as “outrageous” and raising doubts about Pakistan’s credibility as a neutral mediator in the ongoing Middle East tensions.

In a statement, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that calls for Israel’s destruction are unacceptable, particularly from a country presenting itself as a facilitator of peace. The response followed controversial social media remarks by Mr Asif, in which he used highly critical and widely condemned language against Israel.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also condemned the comments, calling them “blatantly antisemitic” and stressing that Israel will continue to defend itself against any threats to its security.

Pakistan, which has recently been credited with helping broker a temporary two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, is expected to host further peace talks in the coming days. However, the latest controversy has cast doubt over its role in the diplomatic process.

In his remarks, Mr Asif also referred to ongoing conflicts in the region, alleging continued violence involving Israel in Gaza, Iran, and Lebanon. The development comes at a time of heightened tensions in West Asia, even as diplomatic efforts continue to stabilise the situation and uphold the fragile ceasefire.