ISLAMABAD:
Marking the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, Pakistan on Wednesday voiced strong solidarity with the people of Palestine and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), drawing global attention to what it described as the “worst forms of torture” being carried out under occupation.
In a statement issued by the Foreign Office, Pakistan reiterated its firm commitment to upholding human dignity and eradicating torture in all its forms. The statement also condemned the systematic abuse faced by those living under foreign occupation — particularly in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and IIOJK — calling such practices a gross violation of international law and human rights.
“On this day, we stand with victims of torture around the world, especially those in Palestine and Kashmir who continue to endure unspeakable cruelty at the hands of occupying forces,” the statement said.
Highlighting the country’s own values, the Foreign Office underscored that torture is fundamentally incompatible with Islamic teachings and Pakistan’s moral and legal principles. “Islam upholds the sanctity and dignity of every human being. Any act of torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment runs contrary to the values of justice and compassion at the heart of our faith,” it noted.
The government said it is actively working to strengthen legal and institutional safeguards against torture at home, including reforms aimed at ensuring accountability and providing support for victims. According to the statement, efforts are ongoing to improve oversight, reinforce legal protections, and expand access to medical, legal, and psychological care for survivors.
Pakistan also expressed deep concern over the persistent use of torture in occupied regions as a tool to silence dissent and suppress legitimate struggles for self-determination. The statement accused occupying forces in both Palestine and Kashmir of targeting civilians, including women and children, with physical abuse, arbitrary detention, and other brutal tactics.
“These actions are not isolated incidents — they are part of a deliberate effort to intimidate and marginalize entire communities seeking their fundamental rights,” it added. Calling for urgent international attention, Pakistan urged global powers and human rights organizations to hold perpetrators accountable and stand with victims. “The world must not look away. It is time to speak out and act against torture wherever it occurs,” the statement concluded
