Ishaq Dar responds to proposal of united Muslim force for Gaza

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar shared Pakistan's stance on the possibility of Muslim countries forming a united force to intervene in Gaza, independent of the United Nations framework.

In an interview with Al Jazeera, the Foreign Minister addressed the speculation, he said that under the UN Security Council, there is a mechanism to impose strict economic sanctions on any country that disregards international rules, which can create a serious economic impact.

Commenting on discussions among Arab states, Dar said, “They (Muslim countries) have talked about a combined security force. Why not? What’s wrong with that? According to their capacity and strength, they should create a mechanism, not for aggression, but for peaceful purposes, to stop an aggressor or an occupier who does not listen.”

When asked about Pakistan’s role in such a scenario, Dar replied that as a nuclear-armed nation, Pakistan would fulfill its responsibility as part of the Muslim ummah.

“Nuclear powered Pakistan will discharge its duty as part of the ummah. We believe it (nuclear power) is a deterrent that we never intend to use. Pakistan has never used it. Our armed forces, army, air force, and navy, have been effective against powers much bigger than Pakistan. Nuclear powers are equal, no matter how big or small the country is,” he said.