Need for national unity

2026-03-05 - 21:53

PAKISTAN was already facing a serious security situation due to the intensified wave of terrorism but outbreak of hostilities on the western border and the US-Israel invasion of Iran have multiplied challenges of the country, requiring genuine and concrete efforts aimed at strengthening national unity and solidarity. The Government, therefore, took a timely initiative to arrange a briefing session for parliamentary leaders and politicians on the prevailing situation but regrettably the opposition opted not to attend on the plea that such briefings should be held at the parliament house and not elsewhere. However, the participants were taken into confidence over the evolving situation and they expressed their views openly, emphasizing the need for national unity, consensus and solidarity in the current situation. They appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts for peace in the region and also gave suggestions on the future course of action. There can be no two opinions that the country is in a tight position as its defence forces are engaged in an operation against TTP and Afghan Taliban; India and Israel have made no secret of their nefarious designs against Pakistan; Iran war is assuming dangerous dimensions and economic woes of the country are likely to multiply in case the war prolonged for weeks and may be for months. The situation requires prudent handling of the delicate situation as any mistake or miscalculation could have serious security and economic implications for the country. So far, the civilian and political leadership of the country have handled all crises in a wise and balanced manner but options are becoming tricky in the fast-changing regional situation. It is, therefore, time not to do politics and all segments of the society should join hands to ensure the interests of the country are safeguarded in the best possible manner. According to reports, the participants of the briefing were informed that Pakistan will avoid getting directly embroiled in the ongoing Iran and US-Israel conflict and will pursue diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation. The Prime Minister highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach, including high-level contacts with regional and Middle-Eastern leaders to advocate for de-escalation and preserve stability. The most important aspect of this approach is the goal to avoid direct confrontation between Iran and Saudi Arabia as this will mean bitter choices for Pakistan. As the situation is becoming complicated with the passage of every day, there is also logic in the demand that the issues involved should be discussed on the floor of Parliament as well because collective wisdom always pays. It is also satisfying that apart from initiating contacts with parliamentarians and politicians, the Government has activated its crisis management system to cope with the evolving challenges. Making a statement before the Senate Standing Committee on Finance, Minister for Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb hinted at introduction of energy conservation measures to deal with disruption in import of fuel. This is understandable as a grave crisis might emerge in the wake of suspension of LNG from Qatar and closure of Strait of Hormuz from where a major portion of our oil imports takes place. The Government has also initiated contacts with Saudi Arabia for supply of oil through other routes and there has been a positive response from Riyadh in this regard. The Pakistan Government is also approaching the United Arab Emirates seeking oil shipments through the Red Sea. The country has oil reserves enough for a month and the timely alternative arrangements for imports might help prevent fuel shortages in the country but the prices will surely increase and this might trigger another wave of price-hike in the country. Interests of consumers must be safeguarded through greater vigilance and good governance.