Calling for the annihilation of Israel is unacceptable: Israel reacts to comments by Pakistani Defense Minister

A heated controversy has erupted following statements made by the Pakistani Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, who posted a virulent message targeting Israel, amidst diplomatic mediation attempts in Islamabad.

“Israel is a curse for humanity. While peace talks are ongoing in Islamabad, a genocide is being committed in Lebanon. Innocent civilians are being killed by Israel: first Gaza, then Iran, and now Lebanon; the bloodshed continues without respite. I hope and pray that those who created this “accursed” state on Palestinian land to rid themselves of European Jews burn in hell,” he posted on the social network X.

These remarks immediately sparked a strong reaction from Israeli authorities. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar denounced “flagrant anti-Semitic slurs” from a government presenting itself as a mediator, adding: “To call the Jewish state ‘accursed’ is in practice to call for its destruction. Israel views these remarks with utmost seriousness and will defend itself against terrorists calling for its destruction.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office also condemned these statements, stating that “the call for the annihilation of Israel is scandalous and unacceptable from any government, especially one claiming to play the role of a neutral arbiter for peace.”

This incident comes as Pakistan is engaged in mediating efforts between the United States and Iran, which could undermine its diplomatic credibility.