Senator Mushahid Hussain, leader of the Pakistan Parliamentary delegation to the Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) annual conference, strongly criticized the Israeli war crimes against the Palestinians and accused the Western world, particularly the United States, of hypocrisy and double standards. Speaking at the IPU general assembly, Senator Mushahid called for countering Islamophobia, which has led to an increase in violence against Muslims.

The senator made three key points in his speech. First, he emphasized that the Palestinian resistance against illegal Israeli occupation is justified under international law and the UN Charter, as it is a natural response to decades of occupation and brutal Israeli practices that have resulted in the killing of innocent people.

Secondly, Senator Mushahid criticized the Western hypocrisy and double standards, particularly from the United States, which he believes are complicit in Israeli war crimes by opposing a ceasefire in Gaza, leading to more casualties. He highlighted the US support for Israel during the ongoing violence, which has resulted in the bombing of hospitals, including Al Ahli Hospital, causing the deaths of over 500 children.

The senator also pointed out that Israel has consistently labeled Palestinians as terrorists, regardless of whether they were Yasser Arafat or Hamas. He mentioned that despite these allegations, Palestinians won the "most free election in the Middle East" in 2007, as recognized by former US President Jimmy Carter.

Senator Mushahid demanded an end to the Gaza Genocide, the lifting of the 16-year blockade on Gaza, and the cessation of long-standing Israeli occupation. He also called for the protection of holy places and religious texts, and the establishment of a free Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.

Regarding Islamophobia, the senator emphasized that it poses a threat to interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence, as it stems from hate, bigotry, and racism, leading to violence against Muslims in the West. He called for necessary legislation to protect Muslims living in Western countries and ensure their rights.

In his speech, Senator Mushahid expressed opposition to militarism and the new cold war, rejecting the expansion of NATO into Asia. He praised China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a promising pathway for the 21st century. He also highlighted Pakistan's support for African liberation struggles in various countries.

The Pakistan Parliamentary delegation session was attended by several senators, including Shahzad Waseem (Leader of the Opposition), Senator Sadia Khaqan Abbasi, and Senator Attaur Rahman, along with Secretary Senate Qasim Samad and Pakistan's Ambassador to Zimbabwe Murad Baseer. Earlier this month, Senator Mushahid received the Silk Road Award in recognition of his contributions to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) during a media cooperation forum on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).