Pakistan, along with other countries, is backing efforts to secure a ceasefire between Iran and the United States, says Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, as part of ongoing diplomatic attempts to end the conflict.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party, has denounced the war against Iran as illegal, cautioning that escalating tensions in the Middle East could trigger a broader global conflict.
Speaking at an event in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh to mark the 47th death anniversary of PPP founder and former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, he expressed deep concern over reported attacks, including a strike on a school in Iran that resulted in the deaths of children, describing it as a profoundly tragic incident.
He condemned the ongoing aggression, warning that the region’s already volatile security situation has consequences that extend beyond Iran and are being felt globally, including in Pakistan.
The former foreign minister emphasized that war does not resolve disputes and primarily harms civilians. He added that Pakistan, alongside other nations, is supporting efforts to achieve a ceasefire and restore regional stability.
“We pray for all those forces, including the Pakistani government, who are working to achieve a ceasefire,” Bilawal said.
Highlighting Pakistan’s defence capabilities, he noted that the country’s nuclear strength—envisioned by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto—serves as a strong deterrent against external threats. “Iran, Lebanon, and Syria are under attack, yet the Zionist forces cannot even dare to set their sights on Pakistan,” he added.
He reiterated that the Pakistan Peoples Party has consistently promoted national unity during challenging times and will continue to play a role in bringing the country together.
On the domestic front, Bilawal stressed the importance of political consensus, noting that federal and provincial governments had collaborated to provide public relief amid economic pressures exacerbated by Middle East tensions. He urged all stakeholders to set aside differences and work together in the national interest during difficult times.
Bilawal also announced that the PPP-led Sindh government is preparing a fuel subsidy plan for private transport companies to prevent fare hikes.
His remarks came a day after Murad Ali Shah, Sindh Chief Minister, unveiled relief measures, including a Rs2,000 subsidy for each registered motorcyclist for April, following a significant rise in fuel prices.
The relief package further includes support for public transport and the transport sector: registered passenger buses will receive Rs100,000 per vehicle per month, two-axle trucks Rs70,000 per month, and heavy trucks Rs80,000 per month. Intra-city buses with higher fuel consumption will also receive additional assistance.
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