Pakistan Call Netanyahu as 'Terrorist,' Plans Boycott of Israel-Supporting Products

In a fervent stance against Israeli actions in Gaza, Pakistan has labeled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a "terrorist" and announced intentions to ban products from companies backing Israel. The declaration came as part of an agreement with the religious political party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) to end their sit-in near Islamabad, where thousands of Pakistanis rallied in solidarity with the Palestinian cause.

Rana Sanaullah, adviser to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on political and public affairs, emphatically condemned Netanyahu, stating, "Netanyahu is a terrorist and a perpetrator of war crimes." This strong rhetoric reflects the widespread anger and frustration in Pakistan over the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Sanaullah also revealed the formation of a committee tasked with identifying companies and products in Pakistan that may be indirectly or directly supporting Israel or the forces committing atrocities against Palestinians.

The sit-in in Islamabad, which culminated on Friday, saw demonstrators demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the official designation of Netanyahu as a terrorist by the Pakistani government. The protestors' calls for action resonated deeply within the government, leading to the pledge of further aid to Palestinians and a broader boycott of Israeli-related products.

Although Pakistan and Israel do not share direct trade ties, the boycott extends to Western brands perceived as supportive of Israel. "We will not only boycott Israel but all products related to it and companies that are directly or indirectly involved in this cruelty or are helping those forces," Sanaullah announced. This move aims to economically pressure companies associated with Israeli actions.

The Pakistani government's response includes the commitment to send over 1,000 tons of relief supplies to Palestinians by the end of the month, as part of their support for the besieged population in Gaza. This humanitarian gesture has been praised by Hamas, which sees it as a significant step in the international effort to aid Palestinians.

The protest, held at a critical interchange connecting Islamabad to Rawalpindi, significantly disrupted commuter traffic, highlighting the urgency and intensity of the demonstrators' demands. The agreement to end the sit-in included not only the condemnation of Netanyahu but also practical steps to support Palestinian education. Earlier this month, Pakistan announced scholarships for Palestinian medical students from Gaza to continue their education in Pakistan, further solidifying their commitment to the Palestinian cause.

As tensions continue to rise in Gaza, Pakistan's stance and actions mark a notable instance of international political and economic protest against Israeli policies, reflecting the broader regional and global sentiments towards the conflict.