Nearly 1.9 million people in Gaza are at risk due to inadequate shelter and harsh winter conditions
Police officers stand guard outside the main gate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad. Photo: File
The foreign ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates have expressed concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, citing winter conditions, damaged infrastructure and shortages of essential supplies.
In a joint statement, ministers said almost 1.9 million people were living in inadequate shelter, including children, women, the elderly and the medically vulnerable. The statement commends UN agencies, including UNRWA, and international NGOs for continuing relief efforts, and calls for sustained and unrestricted humanitarian operations.
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Joint Statement by the Foreign Ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates https://t.co/xaUMMjjGxW
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— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) January 2, 2026
The statement expresses support for UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and references broader international efforts related to ceasefire agreements and recovery in Gaza. He called for immediate relief measures, including durable shelter, medical supplies, clean water and restoration of damaged infrastructure, and urged the opening of the Rafah crossing in both directions to facilitate humanitarian access.
On the ground, the situation remains disastrous. More than 52,000 Palestinians were killed, including more than 18,000 children; more than 90% of homes in Gaza have been destroyed; 84% of hospitals and virtually all schools were destroyed; and two million people were forcibly displaced.
The United Nations has warned of an increased risk of famine in Gaza. Proceedings related to humanitarian access have also been raised before the International Court of Justice in cases brought by a number of states. Analysts have warned of serious concerns under international humanitarian law as legal reviews continue.
China completes military exercises around Taiwan
AFP reported that China recently conducted military exercises around Taiwan, including live-fire exercises following US arms sales to Taipei. Beijing has said the exercises are aimed at countering what it calls “Taiwan independence” activities, while Japan, Australia and other countries have expressed concern that the drills could increase regional tensions. Taiwan has adjusted its defense posture and said such exercises pose risks to regional security.
Responding to questions on Taiwan, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi reiterated Pakistan’s support for the one-China principle and described Taiwan as an inalienable part of China, adding that Pakistan would continue to support China on issues that concern its core interests.
