ISLAMABAD (MNN); Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, Mehmood Khan Achakzai, on Wednesday announced “unconditional support” for the government’s efforts to promote peace in the Middle East, urging national unity at a critical moment.
Speaking in the National Assembly, Achakzai responded to Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar’s appeal to postpone the opposition’s planned protest. He emphasized that political differences should be set aside in favor of national interest and democratic principles.
He reiterated his earlier call for key political leaders, including Nawaz Sharif, President Asif Ali Zardari, and Imran Khan, to sit together and chart a unified path forward for the country. Achakzai added that he, along with Senate Opposition Leader Allama Nasir Abbas, would try to persuade Imran Khan to engage in dialogue.
“We should stop blaming each other and at least agree on democratic norms,” he said, adding that only a “mad person” would fail to appreciate Pakistan’s recent diplomatic success in mediating the Middle East crisis.
Praising the government’s role, Achakzai declared full support from the opposition and expressed readiness for talks. He stressed that Parliament should remain the central institution for decision-making and policy formulation.
He also highlighted that both the United States and Iran trusted Pakistan’s mediation, noting that the country had effectively conveyed messages between the two sides. “Nature gave us an opportunity, and we handled it well,” he remarked.
Separately, PTI Chairman in the National Assembly Barrister Gohar Ali Khan announced that the party had decided to cancel its public gathering scheduled for Thursday on the instructions of Imran Khan.
“There are moments in a nation’s life that demand unity. We appreciate everyone who contributed to the ceasefire,” Gohar said, adding that Pakistan played a key role in preventing division within the Muslim world.
He expressed hope that the ceasefire would evolve into lasting peace and reaffirmed PTI’s full support for ongoing negotiations. “Setting aside our grievances, we are moving forward for the sake of the country,” he added.
However, he also raised concerns about Imran Khan’s health and the treatment he has received, stating that even his preferred doctors were not allowed access.
During the session, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif praised Pakistan’s leadership for securing the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, noting that the country’s efforts were being recognized globally.
He highlighted the unprecedented coordination between civilian and military leadership, stating that such unity could have prevented past crises. He termed the diplomatic success a “historic moment” that would bring long-term benefits and a stronger global identity for Pakistan.
Khawaja Asif added that Pakistan has demonstrated its capability to act as a mediator in global conflicts and expressed hope that this unity and strategic vision would continue for the country’s stability and progress.
